Sam Noakes, a promising boxer, has made significant strides in his career, going from working in the railway industry to preparing for a world title shot in Riyadh. Encouraged by his mother, Sharon, Noakes embraced boxing early on, honing his skills at the Westree Boxing Club in Maidstone. His dedication paid off when he won the ABAs in April 2019, marking the beginning of an exciting journey.
Transition to Professional Boxing
Following his amateur success, Noakes caught the attention of the boxing world. He was invited to a high-profile event — Billy Joe Saunders’ WBO super-middleweight title fight against Shefat Isufi. After this event, Francis Warren, the son of renowned promoter Frank Warren, expressed interest in managing Noakes’ career. This pivotal moment led Noakes to leave his past jobs, which included roles in a call center and as a roofer, to pursue boxing full-time.
Motivation and Hard Work
Noakes credits his challenging past jobs for his work ethic in the gym. He remarked, “Thinking about those jobs is what keeps me working hard in the gym. I don’t want to go back to that.” Despite the physical demands of roofing, he admitted he often avoided work during inclement weather. In contrast, boxing requires resilience, which he has embraced as he trains for national recognition.
Overcoming Challenges
As with many athletes, the Covid-19 pandemic posed challenges for Noakes. He originally had three professional fights lined up before the pandemic forced a hiatus. During this period, he returned to the railway industry, assisting his brother as a ‘strapper’s assistant’ while power was cut to facilitate work on electrical lines.
Endurance and Fitness
During his time off from boxing, Noakes maintained his fitness. He famously channeled a moment of guilt after indulging in snacks into a marathon run. Initially planning to run 20 miles, he decided to tackle a full marathon instead, completing the 26.2 miles in three hours and 40 minutes. This accomplishment highlighted his dedication and served as a testament to his potential in the sport.
Looking Ahead: Riyadh and the Upcoming World Title Shot
Noakes has steadily climbed the lightweight ranks and is now on the verge of a world title shot. With his family supporting him, including his father John, who will be ringside in Riyadh, he aims to make a mark in the boxing world. As he prepares for this defining moment in his career, Noakes reflects on his journey from the railways to the ring, demonstrating that commitment and resilience can lead to success.
