Sam Noakes Prepares for Championship Fight
Sam Noakes is gearing up for a pivotal moment in his boxing career as he prepares to face unbeaten American Abdullah Mason for the vacant WBO lightweight championship this Saturday at the ANB Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. At 28 years old, the Maidstone native has established an impressive professional record, maintaining an unblemished 17-fight winning streak.
Journey to Boxing
Noakes, whose journey to this point began when his mother, Sharon, enrolled him in a boxing gym during his teenage years, credits her for igniting his passion for the sport. From a teenager with a penchant for mischief to a serious contender, Noakes has evolved not only as a fighter but also as a person, leaving behind a series of jobs, including roofing and working in fast food, to dedicate himself entirely to boxing.
Facing Abdullah Mason
As he approaches the fight against Mason, who boasts a record of 19 wins with 17 knockouts, Noakes acknowledges a blend of excitement and determination. He hopes that by defeating Mason, he will not only secure the title but also avoid any unwanted communication from his fiercely supportive mother, who has sometimes shown concern for his opponents’ well-being. In a light-hearted recounting, Noakes shared how his mother reached out to a fighter he had beaten, leading to an amusing conversation where he had to request that she refrain from contacting future foes.
Challenges and Growth
Noakes’ ascent in boxing has not been without its challenges. After securing wins in the British, Commonwealth, and European championships, he faced a brief setback during the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced him to return to a job in railway assistance alongside his brother. It was during this time, while battling the monotony of a van ride, that he impulsively decided to run a marathon to alleviate the guilt of indulging in snacks, successfully completing the distance in 3 hours and 40 minutes.
Training and Confidence
Training alongside elite fighters has strengthened Noakes’ belief in his abilities. A recent sparring session with current WBC champion Shakur Stevenson provided invaluable experience that reassured him of his competitiveness at the highest levels of the sport.
“The rounds were competitive and it couldn’t have come at a better time,”
Noakes expressed, emphasizing the boost in confidence he derived from the experience.
Looking Ahead
As he looks ahead to the match in Riyadh—and to capturing that coveted WBO title—Noakes remains focused, driven by the memory of what he left behind in his past jobs and the motivation to prove himself on an international stage, sharing the spotlight with other notable fighters like David Benavidez and Anthony Yarde on the undercard.
