In a recent episode of the talk show “Friday Night With Jonathan Ross,” host Jonathan Ross had the pleasure of welcoming former world champion boxer, Lennox Lewis, to the show. The atmosphere in the studio was electric as Ross and Lewis sat down for a chat about his impressive boxing career and life after retirement.
Lewis, who retired from the fight game two years ago, surprised everyone with his still-incredible physique. Ross couldn’t help but inquire about how he managed to stay in such great shape after leaving the ring. Lewis humorously replied, “Just in case someone calls me out,” showing off his playful side.
The conversation then shifted to Lewis’s illustrious career, with Ross asking him about the titles he held. Lewis proudly revealed that he was an undisputed champion and held the prestigious WBC belt for a significant period. When asked about the different boxing leagues and the confusion surrounding them, Lewis admitted that even he found it a bit baffling. However, he emphasized that the WBC was the most prestigious and the one that legends like Muhammad Ali and Sonny Liston held.
Ross then delved into Lewis’s professional record, asking how many fights he had won. Lewis modestly admitted that he had only been beaten twice in his career but made a point to mention that he had avenged those losses, proving his resilience and determination.
The conversation took a more serious turn as Ross asked Lewis about the experience of being knocked down in a fight. Lewis revealed that everything seemed to go in slow motion when he got knocked down, but he always managed to bounce back up to continue the fight. The talk show host expressed his admiration for boxers and asked Lewis about his thoughts on the sport’s controversies, such as safety concerns and glove regulations. Lewis, a devout fan of Muhammad Ali, praised the “sweet science” of boxing and how it involved strategy, skill, and avoiding unnecessary punches.
Reflecting on the impact of boxing, Lewis spoke passionately about Ali’s influence on the sport. He recounted how watching Ali’s famous shuffle with his mother was a cherished childhood memory and emphasized the boxing legend’s significance in and out of the ring. Lewis even shared how he recently met Ali at a charity event and described Ali’s dedication to promoting understanding and tolerance through his center in Kentucky.
Ross then shifted gears and asked Lewis if he missed anything about boxing after retiring. Surprisingly, the former champion confessed that he had been trying to leave boxing behind for a while. However, Ross playfully suggested that Lewis might get back into the ring given the financial offers he must be receiving. Lewis quipped back, saying that the last person he beat needed him more than he needed them, referring to the possibility of a rematch.
The conversation continued with lighthearted banter about potentially getting back in the ring, with Lewis humorously stating that it would require an astronomical sum of money to tempt him. Ross commented on Lewis’s support system, particularly his strong-willed mother, who has been a significant influence throughout his life. Lewis acknowledged his mother’s importance but also recognized the need to take it easy and enjoy life post-retirement.
Lewis concluded the interview by discussing his newfound joy as a father to his nine-month-old son. He expressed the immense love he feels for his child and the beauty of witnessing each milestone. Ross praised Lewis’s private nature and upcoming documentary, which will provide a glimpse into his experiences in the fight game. Lewis hinted at never-before-seen footage, including behind-the-scenes moments before his fight against Mike Tyson.
The episode wrapped up on a light note, with Ross jokingly offering himself as Lewis’s next opponent. Lewis playfully entertained the idea but assured Ross that he had no plans to return to the ring.
Overall, the episode was a lively and entertaining conversation about Lennox Lewis‘s remarkable boxing career and his life beyond the sport. The chat show once again proved to be a platform for engaging discussions with some of the world’s most fascinating personalities.
