Sometimes the image of the intellectual boxer did for me more harm than good. If a boxer has a reputation as an intellectual, some people no longer respect him as a fighter. With me it was always ‘Lennox should react, not think’. But that’s nonsense. Only the guy who controls his opponent wins.

Sometimes success needs interruption to regain focus and shake off complacency.

I could never stand big-mouthed types. I had problems with that at high school. I’ve still got the scars on my fists from the teeth of the guys I hit so that they’d finally shut up. I came from England to Canada, of course, and was often ridiculed because I had a strange accent. I was expelled from school and it was a long time before I could control myself. But the impulse remained: a punch in the mouth to get some peace and quiet.

I always ask myself why old heavyweights come back, but I plan to stay out of the ring.

Boxing isn't just about brute strength; it's about skill and outwitting your opponent.

Now I am ready to set new goals and start a new career for myself outside of the ring.

I am just taking the top fights out there for me. People will get bored seeing me every day knock someone out.