I look up to Joshua for inspiration – Mbata

African Games 2023 champion Patricia Mbata talks about starting boxing, representing Nigeria and more in this interview with PETER AKINBO

What inspired you to take up boxing?

I started boxing in 2019 as a hobby. I didn’t have any prior experience, but I just fell in love with the sport. I used to play other sports like athletics, football, and netball in school, but boxing wasn’t even in my vocabulary back then.

You trained at the Finchley Amateur Boxing Club, where Anthony Joshua started his career. Did you draw inspiration from him?

Yes, I did. Actually, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but the club has a great atmosphere. I trained with other boxers, and they were all supportive. I didn’t know about the club’s rich history until later. Joshua is actually one of my idols. We share similarities as British boxers of Nigerian descent, and I trained at the same club where he started his amateur career. He’s always been very inspiring, and I’ve had conversations with him when he visits the gym. He’d say, “Just do it,” and that’s my philosophy too.

How do you stay motivated and focused despite setbacks, especially during the Olympic qualifiers?

I believe in myself and my abilities. I know that I have what it takes to succeed, and I just need to keep pushing. I don’t get too philosophical or emotional about it, but I know that being on the Olympic stage is where I belong. When I didn’t qualify for the Olympics at the qualifiers in Senegal, I was upset, but I didn’t let it get me down for long. I picked myself up and kept pushing forward.

You’ve recently won gold at the African Games, how did that feel?

Winning the gold medal was incredible. I arrived in Accra just a few days after my defeat in the final of the Olympic qualifiers, and I was determined to make a statement. It was a great feeling, and I’m proud to have contributed to Team Nigeria’s success.

Can you tell us about your experience at the Games?

Competing at the African Games was an incredible experience. It was my first time competing at that level, and I was nervous but excited. The competition was tough, but I was determined to give it my all and make Nigeria proud.

Anthony Joshua praised you on your African Games triumph, what does his support mean to you?

His support means a lot to me. He’s someone I look up to, and his recognition of my achievement is a great motivator. I think my ethos is similar to Josh’s. We both started from humble beginnings and worked our way up. He’s always been an inspiration to me, and I try to emulate his work ethic and dedication to the sport.

What advice would you give to young boxers who are just starting out?

I would say that you have to do things that almost seem impossible because you never know where you’re going to end up. You just have to push, if you’ve got a love for something so much, and you believe in it, and it’s in your spirit, and you dream about it every single day, you are right to just pursue that dream.

What does representing Nigeria mean to you?

Representing Nigeria is a huge honour for me. When the Nigerian Boxing Federation invited me to fight for the national team, it was a dream come true. I felt like I belonged, and I was proud to represent my country.

How did you feel when you won the silver medal at the 2023 African Boxing Championships?

Winning the silver medal was a great feeling, and it was definitely a validation of my hard work. I was a bit disappointed that I didn’t win gold, but I knew I had given it my all. It was a great experience, and it showed me that I’m on the right track.

Can you tell us about your strategy going into those fights?

I always try to focus on my own game plan and not get too caught up in worrying about my opponents. I work with my coaches to develop a strategy that plays to my strengths, and I trust in my training and preparation.

How do you balance the physical demands of boxing with the mental preparation required for competition?

For me, it’s all about finding a balance between physical training and mental preparation. I work with my coaches to develop a training plan that’s tailored to my needs, and I also prioritize mental preparation.

What are your goals for the future?

My goal is to win an Olympic gold medal and become a world champion. I’m committed to putting in the hard work and dedication required to achieve those goals. I see myself competing at the highest level for years to come, and I’m excited to see where my career takes me.