Trainer Joe Gallagher is working with former cruiserweight world titleholder Lawrence Okolie to eliminate his habitual holding in fights. This change follows Okolie's recent loss and switch in trainers. Gallagher delved into the process during the Toe 2 Toe Sky Sports Podcast, describing the challenge as akin to quitting smoking.
Joe Gallagher and Lawrence Okolie have teamed up to address a critical element of Okolie's boxing technique: his tendency to hold. This issue became evident last May when Okolie lost to Chris Billam-Smith in Bournemouth, U.K., marking a decisive moment that led him to part ways with previous trainer SugarHill Steward.
Gallagher, who boasts a successful track record of guiding fighters such as Callum Smith and Natasha Jonas to world titles, began coaching Okolie with a clear focus. The target was clear: eradicate the holding that had plagued previous fights. During training, significant progress was reported; Gallagher noted on Toe 2 Toe Sky Sports Podcast that Okolie had managed sparring sessions without recurring holding incidents.
Gallagher explained, "It is a habit – just like smoking or having a twitch. We have looked at it [together] and the reasons why he is doing it. We are now at the point where we know why he is doing it, and now in sparring he is not doing it. In sparring, there is no hugging or holding, and he is letting his shots go."
Looking ahead, Lawrence Okolie will test these improvements in an upcoming fight next month in Poland where he challenges bridgerweight titleholder Lukasz Rozanski. Rozanski holds an undefeated record of 15-0 with notable wins against competitors like Artur Szpilka and Alen Babic.
