60 seconds with cruiserweight Lewis Oakford
By Andrew Fairley
Why did you start boxing and how old were you?
I started boxing because I wanted to challenge myself. I was 20 when I had my first amateur fight.
Who is your favourite all-time fighter and why?
Muhammad Ali. Although he was way before my time, his charisma and skill were captivating. Also, what he had to overcome outside of the ring and what he stood for was deeply inspiring.
What is the best fight you have seen, either live or on television?
Oleksandr Usyk vs Mairis Briedis. It was all-out war on the highest skill level. That was amazing to watch.
Usyk beats Briedis (Action Images)
What is your best achievement in boxing so far?
I would say it is personally my physical and mental improvement through boxing. Bigger achievements pending (lol).
Who is the toughest opponent you’ve faced and why?
Deevorn Miller.
What are your strengths and weaknesses as a boxer?
My strength is my speed and economic movement and my heart. I don’t want to disclose any weaknesses; I work on my weaknesses until they become strengths!
What is your best piece of advice for boxing training?
Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.
What is your favourite meal and restaurant?
That’s a tough one! But I will go for a Turkish mixed grill chicken and lamb with salad.
Who are your best friends in boxing?
My best friend in boxing is my coach, Matthew Hirst. There aren’t many friends in this business. It’s the hurt business.
Which other athlete would you like to be?
Cristiano Ronaldo.
What is the one thing you would change about professional boxing?
The judging system. There are too many robberies that can be very career-damaging for many fighters.
Which actor would play you in a film of your life?
Dwayne Johnson.
Have you ever been starstruck? If so, who was the star?
I was star struck when i saw Tyson Fury outside Wembley arena. The height of him towering above his security was what done it for me (lol).
What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
A man who stands for nothing will fall for everything.
What is the worst rumour you have heard about yourself?
I’ve been lucky not to have rumours spread about me. None of them got back to me anyway.
Tell us something, not many people know about you.
I’m scared of spiders.
Fast Facts:
Age: 32
Twitter/X: @might_oak
Nickname: Mighty Oak
Height: 6 ft 3ins
Nationality: British
From: Born and raised in London Hackney, living in High Wycombe.
Stance: Orthodox
Record: 5-0
Division: Cruiserweight
Titles: None yet
Next fight: John Hedges for the Southern Area cruiserweight title at the Copper Box on July 1.
