Lawrence Okolie has reacted to the audible boos from fans during his successful world title defence against David Light at the Manchester Arena last night.
Despite emerging with the victory, it was not Okolie’s most impressive performance and the fight was, for the most part, a very untidy one.
Speaking at the post fight press conference, ‘The Sauce’ assured the attending media that, although he heard the boos, they did not have any effect on him in the ring.
“Of course [I heard them]. Nothing affects me when I’m in the ring with a person who’s trying to knock me out. This is a sport where you can die at any time! So I’m not interested in anything other than grinding down my opponent and getting the win.”
“It’s a learning curve and a continuous journey. But where is anyone who’s even come close to beating me? Or even landed a shot?”
“I want to put on more impressive performances, but this takes time. I’m an undefeated world champion, I’ve changed my whole life and I am very happy with where I’m at.”
The fight was Okolie’s debut under the Boxxer banner, and promoter Ben Shalom they were hoping for a highlight reel knockout.
A much talked about London derby with Richard Riakhpore could be next for Okolie, or potentially a unification bout with IBF world champion Jai Opetaia.
Also discussed for Okolie has been a fight with former stablemate Chris Billam Smith, who will fight at the Vitality Stadium in Bournemouth on May 27th.
The two both trained under Shane McGuigan, however Okolie has admitted he would have no opposition to locking horns with Billam Smith if the opportunity arose.