Siofra Lawless: There is a lot of pressure, but I hope for the same gold medal as last year
October 26th, 2024 / IBA Youth World Boxing Championships
IBA Junior World Champion 2023 for Ireland Siofra Lawless competes this year in IBA Youth World Boxing Championships in Budva, where she won her first fight by referee’s stoppage in the second round of 63kg preliminary contest against Moroccan Safae Zoubaa.
Despite the last year accomplishment, Lawless does not consider herself a favourite in her weight category.
‘I don’t feel like a favourite at this event, I feel like every other boxer is here with the same intention, they all want that gold medal. That said, I think I want it more, I worked harder, I do not think any of them have put the same effort and time in as I have. I am excited now, and hopefully the same again as last year. I have a lot of pressure, especially from back home, high expectations,’ Lawless said.
She also commented on her first bout.
‘Everyone is a tough opponent, but once I got in the ring, it took me a few seconds to figure it out. I probably could have held myself back a bit more, I got tired and excited in the second round, but I am happy with my performance. I am feeling a bit sharper after that victory,’ she added.
Siofra confessed that she sees her adult life in remaining in boxing; I am excited for the future.
‘After one more year in the youth category, I will definitely go elite, I don’t see me doing anything else. The people who I train with every day, and we push each other, as well as my coach, are my true inspiration,’ she claimed.
