Lewis Richardson trained by Ipswich coach in Olympic bout

27-year-old Lewis Richardson’s journey started with Suffolk New College welding lecturer Simon Mullan, 14 years ago. 

On Saturday, he beat Jordan's Zeyad Eashash to qualify for the semi-finals of men's Welterweight boxing. 

The Team GB boxer has secured a bronze medal no matter the result because in boxing both losers of the semi-finals are awarded bronze. 

Mr Mullan has coached Richardson from the age of 13. (Image: Suffolk New College)

Richardson said: “I’m an Olympic medallist now and for the rest of my life. It’s something that will live with me forever. Now it’s time to change that colour.

 “I’m over the moon. It’s a special moment in mine and my family’s lives. I’m so grateful to be able to make them proud.

 “I was aware of the expectations on me from the nation from a boxing perspective but I always back myself to perform the best I can, and I knew if I did, I knew there was strong possibility I’d come out victorious and thankfully, that’s been the case tonight."

Mr Mullan had stuck with Richardson throughout his journey, including setbacks that delayed the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and the changes in weight limits.

As a result, when the 27-year-old had qualified for the Olympics he sent a postcard from Paris to the Ipswich coach, which left him “choked up”.

The postcard said: "To Simon – we did it. Olympian forever. Just a quick message to thank you for supporting me – from a boy to a man.

"I am very grateful. You have been far more than just a coach in boxing – you have been my mother, a father, a friend, a physio, a nutritionist and much much more. Always here.

"Olympics here we come. Lewis."

Richardson's semi-final match will take place on Tuesday at 8:45pm. (Image: PA)

Mr Mullan was unable to join the boxer in Paris but will hope for the best for him.

He said: “I’ll be messaging him and cheering on from afar.”

Richardson's next bout will be against Mexico's Marco Verde at 8:45pm on Tuesday.