The fight for the WBO cruiserweight title between Lawrence Okolie and Poland’s Krzysztof Glowacki will take place on March 20th. One of the brightest stars in UK Boxing, Lawrence Okolie has an exceptional 15-0 (12 KO) boxing record and as he prepares for the biggest fight in his career so far, he delivers an unexpected punch as he debuts his aptly titled ring walk record, and first release as a musician, ‘TKO’.
A keen music enthusiast, Lawrence kept himself busy by pursuing his other passion; music, throughout the summer of 2020 when he was unable to train due to the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. “The song was recorded in Hackney, close to where I grew up”, says Lawrence of the hard-hitting, rap record produced by IVN. Featuring his staunch and distinctive baritone vocal, ‘TKO’ hears Lawrence weigh in heavy with considered bars about his undefeated skills and lavish lifestyle, presenting a whole new dimension to his evolving character.
Lawrence’s story is nothing short of extraordinary and whilst his rap debut may come as a surprise to some, understanding his journey not only illustrates just how exceptional and determined he is, but also how differently life could’ve been for him. Less than 10 years ago, Lawrence Okolie worked in McDonalds and was being warned by doctors to lose weight as he was classed as obese. In 2012, between his shifts, Lawrence had a life changing event when he watched the London Olympics and managed to catch Anthony Joshua’s gold medal victory, it was all he needed to see, and within one Olympic cycle he went from an obese teenager to an Olympian, representing Great Britain at Rio in 2016. Now the World Title hopeful, Lawrence Okolie has since dominated the European cruiserweight scene over the past two years, remaining unbeaten in 15 fights, most recently boxing at Wembley Arena December 12th and a full circle moment as the main support to Anthony Joshua.
Carrying his discipline and unshakeable courage to pursue his passions, Lawrence Okolie joins the rich tapestry of East London’s musicians and the Black British Music Scene with a confident, bold and inspiring stance, he explains: “My story could belong to anyone. I want to inspire kids like me to do things the right way like I have done. To work hard, to make sacrifices and enjoy the rewards. That’s what it’s about.’
With the world title fight scheduled for 20th March and ‘TKO’ providing the soundtrack to his ring walk, Lawrence Okolie’s career is most certainly worth keeping an eye on, both in and out of the ring.