A NEWLY crowned Commonwealth Games champion has already been inspiring the next generation of boxers in Hereford.

Delicious Orie won gold in a thrilling super-heavyweight contest coming through a tough opening to beat India’s Sagar Ahlawat in the final.

Despite losing the first round Orie, who coaches children at Hereford’s South Wye Police Boxing Club, showed grit and determination to win the bout and gold.

“When that final bell went I knew I had it in the bag,” said Orie who was cheered on by coaches from the Hereford club.

“The only way I did it was through the support of the fans. After that first round I didn’t win it, I knew I was down and had two rounds to prove myself.

“My coach told me I was down but I was not going to let anybody else win, I was determined, there was no way. You would have to kill me in there before I lost.

“There was no way I was walking down those steps afterwards to collect a silver medal. That has just been the way my mentality has been since I started.

“I’ve never felt anything like this, it’s like a drug now I’m addicted to it. I can’t wait in the next few years to bring the fans together to watch Delicious Orie box.

“I started boxing at 18 years old and took inspiration from Anthony Joshua. You can be from any walk of life as long as you have determination, hard work and willpower you can achieve it. It’s as simple of that especially in a country like England that provides opportunities. You’re not going to get an opportunity like that anywhere in the world and I hope to have proven that today.

Hereford Times: Delicious Orie has been inspiring youngsters at Hereford’s South Wye Police Boxing ClubDelicious Orie has been inspiring youngsters at Hereford’s South Wye Police Boxing Club

Orie, nicked DJ, started attending South Wye Police Boxing Club with GB coach Mick Maguire and was instantly a favourite amongst the younger members.

During the Covid-19 lockdown Orie helped to keep spirits high amongst boxers hosting online coaching videos and sending inspirational video messages.

Club secretary Vince McNally said: "DJ is not one of those famous people that put on an act, DJ cares, he know the kids names and knows their backgrounds and does his best to help.

“We had to stop him coming to the gym at one stage when the restrictions had finished, we had to ensure he didn't pick up Covid-19 during his training camp as this would have knocked him back.

“DJ has been a massive part of our community projects helping with our Fit & Fed project, and our boxing in schools project with the West Mercia Police.”

Because of the close relationship with the South Wye Club a group of young boxers were invited to the Commonwealth Games on Saturday night to watch Orie beat New Zealander Uila Mau'u in the semi-final.

"That was fantastic," added McNally "to be able to give 12 people the chance of being ringside and make memories of such an event, DJ touched gloves with all of the kids on the way to the ring.

"DJ will be down to continue to inspire at our Hereford club, and work towards Olympic success in 2024."