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African Games gold medallist Adam Olaore started boxing at 14 in the United Kingdom. The Lagos-born pugilist talks about the Games in Ghana, his Olympics dream, representing Nigeria and more, in this interview with PETER AKINBO
How did you get involved in boxing?
My friend spotted a boxing gym and asked if I wanted to go in, that was eight years ago. He asked me to go in and I said I would go simply because I was bored. After I went in, I had a lot of fun with the session and wanted to keep coming back. It was a complete coincidence because if my friend never spotted it, I wouldn’t be boxing today. The first session was an eye-opener, the intensity, the discipline and the camaraderie among the boxers hooked me instantly. I kept going, fell in love with it a little more every day, and before I knew it, I was already in love with boxing. There was a different feeling, a different level of hardship, a different level of satisfaction when you succeed in it.
Did your parents support your decision to become a boxer?
My parents did not initially like the idea of me boxing because they did not want me to get hurt, but once they saw I was determined and capable, they supported me. Witnessing my determination and passion for boxing reassured them that I was capable of handling the challenges that came with it and eventually, their unwavering support became a vital source of motivation for me to pursue my boxing dreams.
Was it easy or difficult in the beginning?
Boxing is never easy no matter the level, it’s not a walk in the park. I wanted to be better, so, I persevered. Despite the difficulties I encountered along the way, the joy and fulfilment I got from honing my skills and seeing progress made every difficulty worth overcoming.
How was it combining sports and education?
Balancing academics and boxing when I was in school presented its fair share of challenge but at the time I did not think much of it, I was simply doing what I enjoyed.
What drives you as a boxer?
I am a hunter. The thing for me that I believe people see when I box, is how I want to win, I want it more than everyone else. I just want it so much. Only the best is what I want to be.
Have you ever felt like quitting boxing?
At times, yes. At a younger age, I did feel like quitting boxing but then I remembered what was important to me and what I had to do, which inevitably led me back to boxing.
What is the happiest moment in your career so far?
The happiest moment of my career came when I clinched victory in the national youth championships in 2020 and of course, securing my qualification for the Olympics. It was a result of years of hard work and when I stood on that podium, I felt a profound sense of accomplishment and pride washed over me. It was a moment I’ll forever cherish.
You won a gold medal in Accra at the African Games, how did that feel?
It felt right as what I needed to win to know the progression was there and that my improvement had not halted. It was a defining moment in my boxing career. It was a moment that reinforced my belief in my abilities and further fueled my determination to strive for excellence on the international stage.
How did you feel qualifying for the Olympic Games?
It felt as though I was finally on the path to greatness, a path to a big future. The realisation that I would be representing my country on the world’s biggest sporting stage filled me with immense pride and gratitude.
How are you preparing for the Games?
In preparation for the Olympics, I’m leaving no stone unturned. Training has become even more intense and focused as I strive to peak at the right moment. I’m working closely with my coaches to fine-tune my skills and address any weaknesses. Additionally, I’m focusing on maintaining peak physical condition through rigorous training sessions, proper nutrition and enough rest. Mentally, I’m cultivating a winning mindset, visualising success and channeling any pressure into motivation.
What does competing at the Olympics mean to you?
Going to the Olympics is any athlete’s dream, to call themselves an Olympian, it holds so much weight behind it – not only are you an elite boxer, but you’re the leader of the elite. And it will be a dream come true. I know I’m still young, but I just don’t want to go to the Olympics. I want to do very well in the Olympics and come back with gold on my neck.
You were born in Nigeria but grew up in the UK where you began boxing. Why did you chose to represent Nigeria?
That was initiated by my parents, they really wanted me to represent Nigeria despite their initial reluctance and I obeyed their wishes.
You’ve travelled to various countries as a boxer. Where did you enjoy fighting the most?
I enjoyed all of them equally as they have all great experiences. I won’t really be able to pick a favourite country but I always had a great time fighting anywhere I had a competition. My focus was always on my opponents, not really the places.
Who is your role model in boxing?
While I admire and draw inspiration from several boxing legends, my ultimate role model in boxing is the future version of myself. Me in five years is my role model.
What would you call your ultimate goal?
My goal is personal to myself but it consists of many things that all boxers want, the Olympic gold medal and success in the professional ranks. I would also like to inspire future generations of boxers, both within Nigeria and globally, to pursue their dreams relentlessly and overcome any obstacles they may encounter.
Growing up, were people scared of you because you could box in the neighbourhood?
No, people were not scared of me because I never held myself as a scary person. I always tried to be kind and good to everyone around me. I didn’t fight in the neighbourhood, I just always kept it to the ring and did my best to be nice outside there.
Who do you think is the best boxer in Team Nigeria camp?
Team Nigeria has many good boxers, I mean that is why we earned many medals (at the African Games). I would have to bet on myself as the best boxer, it is only right to have faith in one’s ability.