Unbeaten heavyweight Franklin Ignatius admires James Toney’s skills
Andrew Fairley spends 60 seconds with the Austrian heavy
Why did you start boxing and how old were you?
I started boxing at 18 and had my first bout at 19.
Who is your favourite all-time fighter and why?
James Toney. Love his skill set and his attitude to boxing. He was ready to fight all comers at all times.
What is the best fight you have seen, either live or on television?
Toney vs McCallum. Both 1 and 2. Extremely high paced and high level skills on display.
What is your best achievement in boxing so far?
Addressing the draw in the rematch vs Hosea [Stewart] and beating him comprehensively.
Who is the toughest opponent you’ve faced and why?
Steve Robinson. He has a chin and is game as anything.
What are your strengths and weaknesses as a boxer?
My strengths are my intelligence and my skills. My only weakness is my experience but I’m learning fast.
What is your best piece of advice for boxing training?
Work hard. Skill matters but determination and hard work matters more.
What is your favourite meal and restaurant?
Fried Yam and Ghanaian Tsofi with Shito. It is beautiful.
Who are your best friends in boxing?
Dan Azeez and Ohara Davies. Both have helped me and given good advice.
Which other athlete would you like to be?
None. I love being myself and I believe my talents are unique.
What is the one thing you would change about professional boxing?
More fights. We need to fight more. Old fighters used to fight every month at least and now that’s gone down dramatically. A shame!
Which actor would play you in a film of your life?
Tough but I’d say Will Smith.
Have you ever been starstruck? If so, who was the star?
No, but I’ve met Roy Jones Jr who has given me some good advice. Tim Witherspoon (below, centre right) as well.
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When was the last time you cried, and why?
When my mother died.
What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
Nothing lasts forever.
What is the worst rumour you have heard about yourself?
I avoid sparring! Crazy. I love to spar.
Tell us something not many people know about you.
I love reading. I have a Kindle unlimited subscription that I make regular use of!
Fast Facts:
Age: 29
Twitter/X and Instagram: @FrankoIgnatius
Height: 6ft 4ins
Nationality: Austrian/Nigerian
From: London
Stance: Orthodox
Record: 6-0-1, 1 KO
Division: Heavyweight
Titles: None
