Fresh from international gold-medal success, Glasgow boxer Leo Church is aiming to carry his winning form into a home Commonwealth Games. Backed by years of hard work and a passionate local crowd, the 19-year-old believes he is ready for the biggest stage of his career.
A Homecoming for the Champion
The Team Scotland boxer grew up in Drumchapel, just a stones throw away from the SEC Centre, where the Commonwealth Games boxing competition will take place. Church is hoping to continue his fine form this summer at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. A back-to-back gold medallist at the Algirdas Socikas Tournament in Lithuania, Church has been named to represent Team Scotland at the upcoming Games in his home city. The 19-year-old, who boxes for Nightmare Boxing Club, has already proved he packs a powerful punch on the international stage.
“I've had success at the last few tournaments,” he said. “I just won gold in Lithuania and knocked the guy out in the first round in the final. It was impressive stuff. So, in terms of goals going forward, it's staying on that wavelength, staying at that kind of level, and keeping the hard work going.”
The Road to the Ring
Though success can sometimes seem overnight, Church was adamant that fans have only seen the tip of the iceberg. To step into the ring at the Commonwealth Games, it has taken years of early mornings, brutal training schedules, and lots of discipline.
“Preparation started more than a year ago,” said the welterweight. “Month after month, we've been out to competitions and training in other nations because we need a variety of opposition to stay sharp. It's about starting early and staying in the zone in terms of training. It's been tough. We make sure we’re mentally bulletproof as it is so much hard work.”
The Team Scotland boxer grew up in Drumchapel, just a stones throw away from the SEC Centre, where the Commonwealth Games boxing competition will take place. He will hope to lean on the support of his family and friends who make the short trip in July.
“Being at home just makes it that wee bit better to me,” Church said. “Since I joined the programme, that’s been the goal. Now that we’re here, it’s a bit surreal.”
Balancing Act
Amidst the chaos, Church knows how important it is to find time to rest and recharge away from boxing.
“I think it's such a demanding sport, so it's important to take yourself away and almost forget about it,” he said. “Not to let it be your whole life, just a big part of it. I like spending time with family and friends, and I love eating good food - I think that’s probably where half my bank account goes. My favourite cheat meal is a good steak.
“I shared a lot of good memories in my early days with one of my best pals, Drew Ormond. He's now professional, but we went down to Barnsley as young boys and the two of us came home with British gold medals. Boxing brings great opportunities.”
Follow Team Scotland's journey at Glasgow 2026 at @team_scotland on Instagram.
