In 2018, I was helping local heavyweight professional boxer Josh Quailey with his training. He was looking to stay sharp and fit between fights.
Fast forward three weeks, and we were driving to Loughborough University ahead of an evening sparring session with none other than world-ranked heavyweight Dillian Whyte. Whyte, most famous for his barnstormer of a British title fight against Anthony Joshua, had also secured an impressive points win over former world champion Joseph Parker.
Josh was brought in as a sparring partner to help Whyte prepare for his rematch against the tough, battle-hardened gatekeeper, Derek Chisora.
Walking into Loughborough University's boxing gym felt like stepping into one of the many YouTube videos I’d spent hours watching. Dillian was already in the ring sparring when we arrived. We were greeted by his trainer, Mark Tibbs, whose welcoming Cockney accent told us to get warmed up and outlined how many rounds Josh would be doing that evening. The sound of leather gloves smacking headgear echoed in the background.
Dave Allen was also sparring that night. At one point, he plucked me out of the crowd to help fasten his headguard—a task I’m sure he immediately regretted, as it took me forever to get it right.
Next, it was Josh’s turn. It was an incredible moment for me—working Josh’s corner alongside a world-ranked fighter and his trainer, who hailed from the very fabric of East London’s boxing royalty.
Josh had an amazing sparring session and did himself proud. So much so that he was invited back the following week.
Whyte went on to win in spectacular fashion at a sold-out O2 Arena.
And this is just the beginning of my ‘Adventures of an Pad Man’ blogs. In the next instalment, I’ll get to meet one of my boxing heroes.
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