Interview with heavyweight trier Lee Mountford

Recently I was given the opportunity to interview Lee Mountford, a veteran journeyman heavyweight with 35 bouts to his credit. Although the man from Pudsey, Yorkshire, is 4-28-3, Lee has crossed swords with champions and prospects alike, meeting Martin Rogan, Sam Sexton and Lee Swaby in the ring, amongst others. A tough and determined fighter, with a clear passion for his sport, this is what Lee had to say.

1. How did you start boxing?

I started boxing when I went to Army Sports Centre at the age of seven. I then went to St Patrick's and Hunslet Boys.

2. How would you describe your boxing style?

I would describe my boxing style as orthodox and do not always stick to the same style of boxing and often prefer fighting off of the ropes and I am able to switch the style of boxing to the opponent.

3. What is your ideal fighting weight?

My ideal fighting weight is 16st.

4. What are your best attributes as a fighter?

I would say that my best attributes as a fighter are my massive heart and stamina.

5. Who is the best fighter you have faced?

The best fighters I have ever faced are Sam Sexton and Martin Rogan who both went on to become the Commonwealth heavyweight champions. Also, another two very good fighters were Lee Swaby and Tony Moran who both went on to fight for the British cruiserweight title. I would also say that my favourite two fights were against Nathan Joseph and Billy Boyle but the hardest fight of my entire career was against the up and coming Richard Towers from the Ingle camp, he has fantastic boxing skills and extreme power.

6. What has been the highlight of your career so far?

The highlight of my career so far was my fights against Nathan Joseph, during the three bouts we had, we both went hell for leather and I thoroughly enjoyed these bouts. I would say though that the biggest highlight has to be sharing the ring with fighters who have gone on to fight for titles and become champions.

7. What has been the lowpoint of your career so far?

The low point of my career is that I always regret that I didn't turn professional at a younger age. I was twenty eight.

8. Do you have any ambitions left to achieve before you retire?

I think that once you have boxing in your blood it is very hard to say enough is enough; it is a sport that requires an enormous amount of time and dedication which has been a part of my life for the last thirty years. Since age is not on my side anymore I have not renewed my boxing licence, however I do miss the sport and I am currently considering unlicensed boxing.

9. Who is your favourite boxer and why?

My favourite boxer has always been Evander Holyfield; he has an enormous heart and superb fighting skills.

10. What are your future plans in the sport?

My future plans are that I am currently considering unlicensed boxing.