Interview: Mohamed Mimoune "I suffered a great injustice in front of the whole world"

FN247:

What was life like growing up in France and what inspired you to get into boxing? MM:

I had a regular family life in France. It was my father who put me into boxing as I enjoyed brawling.

FN247:

What where your highlights from your amateur career? MM:

My highlight was becoming Junior champion of France and also representing the French national senior team. FN247:

You had a very successful start to your professional career - and in 2017 travelled to Manchester to upset Sam Eggington for the European title. This was a shock to the UK fans and it was a very clear win. Where you surprised with how clearly you won the fight and did you expect to move on to a world title shot at welterweight? MM:

Yes I have had a successful career so far. I beat a big and strong boxer Sam Eggington for the European title at welterweight. However that was never my true weight category so i stepped down to Light-Welterweight and I became the IBO champion. I did not stay at welter as it is not the weight division for me.

FN247:

In 2019 you entered the Golden contract competition. In the semi final you lost a very controversial decision to Ireland's Tyrone McKenna. Most observers, including myself, felt that you where a clear winner in a classic fight. What was your first reaction to the decision? And has there been any discussions with MTK about a deserved rematch or a fight against the winner of the McKenna vs Ohara Davies final? MM:

Yes I participated in the great tournament and in the quarter final I won by knockout against unbeaten hope Darren Surtees. Then as you said I suffered a great injustice in front of the whole world live on SkySports and ESPN. I could not believe it when it was announced and said it is wrong. MTK will make sure I get a big fight. The McKenna/Davis final does not interest me however I would face either with pleasure for a lot of money. English fans want to see me in the final not the corrupt final they have now.

FN247:

Thank you for your time and is there a message you would like to end with for your fans? MM:

I would like to send a message to the UK audience - I love you all and will fight anyone in big fights.