The View From V2 Magazine Jan 2014 | Page 15

Paul: What's the best advice you have been given in boxing?

SP: I had a tough fight at an amateur national tournament. I won. A judge walks up to me and says "Philippians 4:13, I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me". He smiles, and walks away. That was a very important moment for me. I never forgot it. And I've tried to model my life and career from the premise of that verse. It's also on all of my shorts. It's a testament to what God can really do in our lives. It's what I stand for!!

Paul: Has there ever been a time where the politics of boxing has made you consider whether this sport is really for you?

SP: So far only in the amateur program. A lot of tough times, an decisions throughout my amateur career. I guess professional boxing has restored my faith that this is the sport for me lol.e

Paul: Do you believe it would have been the fight to bring the sport back into the mainstream?

SP: Most definitely. Two great fighters with such great styles. People on there death beds would have been tuned in!!

Paul: Who is the biggest force at Welterweight, yourself excluded?

SP: Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquaio

Paul: Are you planning on resting or getting your first defence out of the way soon?

SP: We'll see what happens. I'm a firm believer in fighting as long as I'm healthy. So I'll be ready to do it as soon as I'm all healed up!!

Paul: Once you have accomplished the goal of winning a World Title how does the psychology change in order for you to move forward and fight without complacency setting in?

Paul: Do you believe every weight division should have a Super 6 tournament to determine who is truly the best?

SP: I think tournaments are cool. If there was 1 for the welterweight division I would definitely consider fighting in it. A super 6 tournament for every weight class will never happen though. Promoters know that's not the best way to make money while also protecting their investments.

Paul: As someone within the sport, just how much do you think the Mayweather vs Pacman fight not happening hurt boxing?

SP: I don't know how much it "hurt" boxing. I'm still waiting on it though!! Lol

SP: I don't think so. I'm not content or satisfied yet. Still hungry!! I haven't done enough just yet.

Paul: Who would you prefer, Kel Brook or Amir Khan as your first defence?

SP: Doesn't matter!!

Thanks again to Shawn Porter for his time: You can follow him on twitter: @ShowtimeShawnP