John Dennen speaks to Tokyo Olympian Peter McGrail ahead of his second pro fight in his hometown of Liverpool this weekend
When and why you started boxing:
I just went along with my friends. We all played for a footie team and five us went to Everton Red Triangle and went from there. I lost my first three fights, won 19 after that and that’s when I won my first national title and won my first Three Nations gold medal. I was only 11 but my coaches knew if I stuck at it I was going to be good.
Favourite all-time fighter:
It’s Manny Pacquiao. I’m a southpaw and I’ve been fast on my feet, in and out, side to side, and I’ve always watched Pacquiao. He’s one of the best ever really.
Best fight you’ve seen:
I like to watch Gatti-Ward.
Personal career highlight:
Probably when I won the European gold medal in Ukraine. I was the first ever Scouser to do it, and there’s been very good boxers to come out of the city, and also beating the Ukrainian in a stadium full of Ukrainians. Also the ref took a point off me, when I feel I didn’t deserve to get a point took off me. It was good, it was a belter.
Toughest opponent:
Robeisy Ramirez, the Cuban. When I boxed him I was young, he was Olympic champion at the time.
Best and worst attributes as a boxer:
My best is probably my footwork, movement, I’m very hard to hit. My worst, maybe I like to work a bit too much. Sometimes I’m a bit too eager to land a shot.
Training tip:
Just listen to your coach.
Favourite meal/restaurant:
Just a Chinese, salt and pepper chicken.
Best friends in boxing:
All the lads at Everton Red Triangle. My brother’s just turned pro. My little brother Joe McGrail he’s having his debut as well [on the same December 11 show in Liverpool that Peter will box on]. It’ll be a good night as a family.
Last film/TV show you saw:
Red Notice. It was alright.
Have you ever been starstruck:
I’ve never met Pacquiao, Mayweather, Lomachenko. I would say I haven’t. Maybe when I meet Pacquiao.
Last time you cried:
Probably when I lost in the Olympics. I was gutted, I’m used to being in a tournament towards the end. At the back of my mind it was exciting as well because I knew what was coming, turning over, being back in Everton Red Triangle full time, my new journey.
Best advice received:
When people have said to me when you work hard, the rewards come. It’s true.
Worst rumour about yourself:
I don’t think anyone’s put any rumours out about me, I think I’m a likeable person.
Something not many people know about you:
Not really. Everyone knows I’m a Scouser, I support Everton, I’m from Everton Red Triangle, that’s all there is.
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