Okolie unphased despite rapid rise in the ring

Okolie missed the majority of London 2012 as he was working in McDonalds, but he was inspired when he saw Joshua become champion four years ago – and is in awe at what the world champion has since achieved.

The 23-year-old started boxing in 2010 as a way of losing weight after tipping the scales at almost 18 stone, and he completed his remarkable journey from overweight guy to gold medal contender when he qualified for Team GB at a European qualifying event in April.

And now his eyes are firmly fixed on success despite his inexperience, insisting he is not there to make up the numbers.

"I put a lot of pressure on myself because I want the gold medal. If I don't win then my life will still continue but I am focused," he said.

"Training is going well. There are still a few weeks where we need to refine a few things.

"There are some things I am working on that can hopefully give me an edge. I am inexperienced but I feel I soak up information quicker than someone who is more experienced.

"I could imagine this last year but I could never see it. But putting the kit on was crazy. When I stated boxing, there was not an end goal or a plan - I just liked the training.

"I had been boxing for a couple of years but I was working in McDonalds in the summer of 2012 so I didn't get to see any of the Games.

"Then I saw Anthony Joshua and Usain Bolt win Olympic gold so it was then that I thought 'this is possible'. To be given an opportunity now is amazing."

Sportsbeat 2016