A British-Nigerian and a former staff of popular fast food venture, (McDonald’s) Lawrence Okolie has emerged as the new WBA Cruiserweight champion.
Lawrence Okolie, notorious for always knocking out his opponents, didn’t defy his reputation as he knocked out Krzysztof Glowacki in the 6th round.
Born in London 29 years ago, the 6 ft 5 boxer grew from the ranks and he represented Britain at the 2016 Olympics although he didn’t make it to the medals table.
Lawrence Okolie made his professional debut in 2017 where he defeated Geoffrey Cave in less than 30 secs after he landed two hooks on his opponent.
He went on to take on 35-year-old journeyman Lukasz Rusiewicz in his second fight later that year and in a fight that lasted for 2 minutes 36 secs as the Nigerian knocked his opponent out twice in the first round.
On the 6th of June, 2018, Lawrence Okolie became the Commonwealth champion after knocking out Luke Watkins twice in the third round at the York Hall in London.
He became the British Cruiserweight champion on the 22nd of September, 2018 after he defeated mandatory challenger, Matty Askin via unanimous decision (116–110, 114–112 and 114–113)
He emerged as an European Champion on the 26th of October, 2019 and a World Champion on the 20th of March, 2021.
Okolie who has Eddie Hearn as his promoter said he is now believing his abilities and he is happy he is making progress.
“Doing all these interviews, realising how much this means – not just to me but to so many people that I can inspire – it feels amazing to go in and actually get it done”
“I’m coming into my own, starting to believe in boxing. I used to just believe in my physical strength, the fact I can hit someone hard and stop them. Now we’re getting into boxing. Keeping it long, moving it fast… I’m just happy that there’s progress.”
Lawrence Okolie is now undefeated in 16 fights with 13 knockouts.
