The results have dropped off but as a whole, what a great season we're still having. The training ground is having its finishing touches which is a really exciting, progressive thing for the club. I may or may not have had a little insight to what it will look like, however, it will help develop our academy players as well as help attract talent worldwide.
Who wouldn't want to play premiership (and European) football for a team who has one of the best training facilities, whilst living in sunny, sunny Bournemouth. I'm excited to see the finished project and then I can work on sneaking myself in for a 6-star recovery session.
Quick note on a Bournemouth legend, Eddie Howe. I'm sure every supporter of our club was as delighted as I was, to see him guide Newcastle to success in the Carabao Cup last Sunday. His work ethic is something I've always admired, our club and fanbase will be forever indebted for his amazing reign as Cherries boss.
Training for myself has really ramped up, sparring is well underway, my weight is good, I'm in a good place. The closer the fight gets the more excited I am getting. Without meaning to sound like I'm blowing my own trumpet, it's been a while since I haven't headlined a show. It is a different feeling. Less media interviews, less hype around my fight. It makes it easier to focus on the task at hand, the day to day concentration of putting the work in. The pressure feels like more than ever because this is a must-win fight, to help get me back to World Championship level. I love that pressure. Billie-Jean King (tennis legend) once said "Pressure is a Privilege" and that is a quote I love. If there is not pressure, there is no meaning or purpose. It must be the right amount of pressure, like anything, there can be too much.
This is pressure in a sporting, performing context, pressure in day to day life is different, it can be extremely challenging at times and I’ve had that in the past, so if anyone does feel like the pressure is getting too much, please seek help.
I’ve managed to build a good resilience through the years and I think that is the determining factor in dealing with pressure. A resilience needs to be built up, over time, gradually, through experience and overcoming obstacles.