There are few more universally popular Irish sporting icons than boxer Andy Lee. The Limerick man recently penned an insightful and fascinating autobiography and appeared on RTE's Late Late Show last night to promote the book.
Lee is a former world champion who boxed out of the renowned Kronk Gym in Detroit under esteemed trainer Emanuel Steward. He compared it a Limerick boy receiving a call to play for Alex Ferguson at Man United. This just scratches the surface of his extraordinary story.
A key feature of Lee's success was his wife, Maud, who helped him with his sports psychology and career. Lee spoke openly about their relationship and how it forged.
Me and her, there are so many reasons why we shouldn't be together. She is a Trinity educated classical violinist from south county Dublin and I am a gypsy from Limerick... but our love prevailed.
The 34-year-old received widespread praise for his appearance.
I am in love with Andy Lee and how he talks about his wife. #latelate
— Eithne Shortall (@eithneshortall) November 2, 2018
Andy Lee always seems one of the most likable and genuine of our Irish sporting heroes #latelate
— Efferal (@efferal) November 2, 2018
I’ve always thought Andy Lee is just a lovely, fine fella.. He’s proving it to a wider audience on the #LateLateShow pic.twitter.com/bGTfzebnYu
— Des Cahill (@sportsdes) November 2, 2018
Fantastic as always @AndyLeeBoxing #latelate
— Joe Molloy (@MolloyJoe) November 2, 2018
Andy Lee is a proper legend and someone that can really be held up to Traveller kids as a role model and an example of what can be achieved when you believe in yourself and look for solutions and not excuses. #latelate
— Wolf Pack (@Wolfpac86) November 2, 2018
Fantastic interview with boxer Andy Lee, a great role model for our young people #LateLateShow
— Martin Ferris (@FerrisMartin) November 2, 2018
Andy Lee comes across so well. #latelate
— Gareth (@gstenson) November 2, 2018
Andy Lee is a class act both inside and outside the ring 🥊👌🏼#LateLateShow pic.twitter.com/aDpgNbjRGo
— John Spillane (@JP_Spillane93) November 2, 2018
As for the book, Lee is doing a signing at Easons, O'Connell Street, Dublin on Saturday 3 November at 12pm. It is available in all good bookstores now.