Lawrence Okolie’s Heavyweight Transformation
Lawrence Okolie has undergone a remarkable heavyweight transformation over the past 18 months, both physically and emotionally. After losing his WBO cruiserweight title to Chris Billam-Smith in May 2023, Okolie has moved up in weight divisions to embrace a fresh challenge in the heavyweight category.
From Cruiserweight Struggles to Heavyweight Confidence
Okolie’s career took a hit after his first-ever defeat, which came after a tough battle with Billam-Smith. Okolie was knocked down three times and received points deductions for excessive holding, leading to significant criticism of his boxing style. However, Okolie took time away from the negativity, reflecting on the reality that he is still a world-class fighter with opportunities to grow.
His loss acted as a catalyst for an inevitable move up to the heavyweight division. After a brief stint at bridgerweight, Okolie signed with Frank Warren’s Queensberry Promotions and is set to make his heavyweight debut against German fighter Hussein Muhamed at the OVO Arena in Wembley.
“I was really struggling to make the cruiserweight limit and when I started struggling to make bridgerweight, I knew it was time to enjoy boxing again,” said Okolie.
The Skinny Cruiserweight: Weight Struggles and Transformation
The 6ft 5in Hackney-born fighter, known as ‘The Sauce’, faced ongoing weight struggles as a cruiserweight. Okolie would often tip the scales at 17st outside of camp, well above the 14st 4lb cruiserweight limit. “I looked skinny and drawn, even though I thought I looked great,” Okolie recalled, reflecting on the mental and physical toll of cutting weight.
Now, as a heavyweight, Okolie enjoys a more relaxed approach to eating, no longer obsessing over meal prep. He indulges in three solid meals a day, including oats, pasta, and even mixed grills for dinner. This newfound flexibility has resulted in noticeable muscle gain, with Okolie boasting bigger biceps and broader shoulders.
Mixed Grills, Personal Bests, and Extra Power
As part of his heavyweight transformation, Okolie has hit personal bests in weight training, feeling stronger and more powerful. He can feel the difference in how his sparring partners react, how the bag responds, and the sound of the pads during training. His new physical strength has translated to added power in the ring.
While Okolie enjoys more freedom with his diet, he remains mindful of his weight and overall fitness. “I still need to make healthy choices,” he says, referencing his complex relationship with food. Having struggled with weight as a teenager, Okolie’s introduction to boxing and nutrition became life-changing.
Keeping Speed and Sharpness for Heavyweight Success
Despite his heavyweight transformation, Okolie knows he must maintain his speed and sharpness. At 18st 6lb, just weeks before his debut, he plans to drop at least one stone. “There’s no point putting on extra stones and losing my speed,” said Okolie, recalling his previous experiences sparring with heavyweights. He draws confidence from those sessions, knowing he can hold his own in the heavyweight ranks.
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