Polish-American heavyweight contender Adam Kownacki talked to with Seconds Out ahead of his upcoming fight on Saturday and gave candid insight into his career.
Kownacki’s boxing career has seen its share of challenges. When asked about his current career phase, marred by three consecutive losses, he responded with stoic optimism, “You’re gonna see my true character, you know? I’ll see if I’ll get back from that.”
“I don’t think so. I think I’m looking at [my best] right now. I had a great camp with Sugar Hill, great sparring, great work with all the friends at the gym. I can’t wait to get in the ring and get the job done,” Kownacki confidently spoke when questioned about whether we’ve seen his best in the ring yet.
The dedication to his craft is apparent when he discusses his preparation for fights, especially the changes he’s made to improve. “I think I was a little bit too much into my own head, making some basic fundamental issues,” he confessed, displaying his self-awareness. “This is what I’ve worked on a lot in camp for this fight.”
When asked if he’s his own harshest critic, Kownacki admitted, “100%, always.” Such a mindset breeds improvement and progress, pushing him to be better with each fight. His coach, the renowned Sugar Hill, helps him in this regard, focusing on improving and fixing the little things in his boxing style.
Pressure and Expectations
Despite the weight of consecutive defeats and the expectation of his large Polish fan base in America, Kownacki is not deterred. “A win is a win, but anything less than spectacular, I’m not taking it. That’s what I’m focused on right now, looking spectacular,” he asserted.
Interestingly, Kownacki revealed that he’s currently a free agent. He wasn’t too concerned with future contracts or promotions, emphasizing his focus on looking amazing in his upcoming fight.
However, he didn’t shy away from discussing potential future bouts. When probed about a previously mooted fight with Derek Chisora, he acknowledged, “It was close, but right now, I’m not in the best position with three losses. But you never know what the future holds.”
Despite his focus on his own career, Kownacki had some thoughts on the challenges faced by other heavyweight titans like Tyson Fury and the potential face-off between Anthony Joshua and Deontay Wilder. His advice? Don’t underestimate any opponent, regardless of the perception or rank. Focus on the fight at hand.
As the interview drew to a close, Kownacki left us with a promise, “I’m winning, baby. I’m back.”
