Send us a text

In this episode of the Big Hype Podcast, host Jonathan Millard sits down with the reigning Flyweight Champion, Nicola Hopewell. Nicola's story is one of incredible transformation—starting as a fitness enthusiast who just wanted to get in shape, she evolved into a dominant force in professional women's boxing.

We dive deep into her transition from the amateur ranks to the professional scene, the mental grit required to bounce back from losses, and the emotional journey of capturing the Commonwealth and IBO titles. Whether you are an aspiring athlete or a fan of the sweet science, Nicola's insights on training, investment in self, and championship mindset are a must-watch.

✨ Key Takeaways:

• The Accidental Boxer: How Nicola went from a fitness class to a stoppage victory in her first amateur fight.
• The Pro Transition: The reality of media, promotion, and the step up in competition when turning professional.
• Championship Mindset: Why Nicola believes losses are valuable lessons and how she prepared mentally to win the IBO title.
• The Future: Nicola's goals for collecting more belts and her passion for mentoring the next generation of fighters.

🕒 Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Nicola Hopewell
01:09 Journey into Boxing: From Fitness to Competition
04:13 The Transition from Amateur to Professional Boxing
08:47 First Professional Fight: Expectations and Reality
12:04 Challenges of Professional Boxing: Media and Promotion
14:42 Facing Adversity: The Commonwealth Title Fight
17:21 Bouncing Back: Learning from Losses
19:47 Defending the Title: Pressure and Preparation
21:35 Training Camp: A Day in the Life of a Boxer
23:50 Building a Supportive Team
24:18 Preparing for the Championship Fight
25:50 Mental Preparation and Visualization Techniques
27:44 Learning from Past Experiences
28:24 Training Challenges and Sparring Dynamics
30:06 The Emotional Victory of Winning the Title
31:32 Transitioning to a New Management Team
34:04 Future Aspirations and Goals
36:29 Acknowledging Supporters and Sponsors
38:29 Life After Boxing and Future Plans
38:43 The Final Round: Quickfire Questions

🔗 Connect with the Show:

• Subscribe to Big Hype Podcast: [Link]
• Follow Nicola Hopewell: [Link]
• Follow Jonathan Millard: [Link]

🏷️ Keywords:

#Boxing #NicolaHopewell #WomensBoxing #ProBoxing #CommonwealthChampion #IBOTitle #BoxingTraining #SportsMotivation #BigHypePodcast #BoxingJourney #AthleteMindset

HYPE Energy Drinks UK

Support the show

Thanks for tuning in to the Big Hype Podcast. We're so glad you're here. Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review on your favourite podcast platform. And remember, Believe the hype, it's time to fight. Follow us on @bighypepodcast.