Sport

‘Rising star’ from Edmonton wins professional boxing debut

Gideon Antwi beat Cristian Uwaka on points in a heavyweight clash at York Hall on Saturday night

Gideon Antwi’s hand is raised following his debut (credit Boxing Tunes)

A “rising star” from Edmonton made a winning start to his professional career in the British heavyweight division on Saturday night in East London.

Gideon Antwi made his highly-anticipated professional debut at the iconic York Hall in Bethnal Green, winning on points against Cristian Uwaka.

Reacting on social media after the fight, Gideon thanked his fans for their support and said: “Now that the smoke has cleared I want to give a big shout out to each and everyone of you, wow! What a crowd we had at the home of London boxing […] I will continue to put on great boxing nights!”

Antwi’s long-awaited debut follows his highly-successful career as an amateur, during which he was part of the Team GB set up.

Following in the footsteps of fan favourites such as Anthony Joshua and Frank Bruno, Gideon lists the GB Three Nations Elite Super-Heavyweight title amongst his achievements – one of the most prestigious belts for domestic amateurs.

Born and raised in Edmonton, Gideon tragically lost his mother when he was just 16 years old and, by the age of 17, weighing more than 24 stone, he was said to be “on the wrong path in life and occasionally on the wrong side of the law”.

But by the time he turned 21 and after shedding six stone, Gideon was competing as an elite amateur against other young champions.

Gideon Antwi with his amateur titles (credit Veronica Cassano)

“Boxing changed everything for me,” he recalls. “It gave me discipline, purpose, and a way to channel my energy in a positive way.”

Gideon also credits his role model Benjamin Miller, a former Guinness World Record-winning powerlifter who became a father figure to adolescent Gideon and still trains him today.

He is now eager to showcase his talent and prove himself at the highest level.

Gideon’s trainer believes he has all the tools to succeed and said: “Gideon has a unique style and an unbeatable heart. Despite all his setbacks he’s a fighter who never gives up, and I’m confident that he’ll achieve great things in the professional game.”

Gideon’s unique style, often described as a “throwback heavyweight”, is characterised by his laid-back demeanour in the ring and exceptional footwork. He has sparred with some of the top heavyweights in the UK, including the likes of Daniel Dubois, Joe Joyce, and social media star Johnny Fisher.

Talking about his long-term ambitions, Gideon added: “The end game is to be as big as Godzilla. I want to be a household name and inspire the next generation. The same way everyone knows Ali, Tyson. I first thing is to go out and win titles.”


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