“He’s a Rat”: Dillian Whyte Blasts Lawrence Okolie Over Jake Paul Fight Prep
Whyte Speaks Out
Dillian Whyte, the former WBC interim heavyweight champion, did not hold back in his latest remarks regarding fellow British heavyweight Lawrence Okolie. The controversy stems from Okolie’s decision to help Jake Paul during sparring sessions in the weeks leading up to Paul’s high-profile fight against Anthony Joshua. For Whyte, this was more than just a training choice—it was, in his eyes, a breach of loyalty.
Speaking candidly to the media, Whyte expressed his disbelief and disappointment. “Why did Lawrence Okolie go to help Jake to get ready for AJ when AJ is the one that burst Okolie on the scene and gave him a name on the scene? That’s mad, there’s no loyalty in the scene at all,” Whyte said. His frustration was clear as he continued, “I don’t like Okolie, he’s a snake, he’s a rat. There’s no loyalty in this scene. I want people to see him for what he is, he’s a rat.”
The Context: Okolie’s Early Career
To understand Whyte’s anger, it’s important to recognize the history between Okolie and Joshua. Lawrence Okolie, a former Olympian and rising star in the heavyweight division, was mentored by Anthony Joshua during the early stages of his professional career. Joshua played a pivotal role in elevating Okolie’s profile, providing him with guidance, exposure, and opportunities in the British boxing scene.
From Whyte’s perspective, sparring with Jake Paul—a fighter who challenged and ultimately defeated Joshua—was a betrayal of that mentorship. For fighters like Whyte, loyalty and respect within the sport are considered essential. Training with someone who recently faced a former mentor crosses a line, in his view, and undermines the bonds built within the boxing community.
The Role of Jake Paul in the Controversy
Jake Paul, the YouTube star turned professional boxer, has disrupted the heavyweight division in unprecedented ways. His fight against Anthony Joshua was one of the most anticipated bouts in recent memory, attracting massive media attention and record-breaking pay-per-view numbers.
Okolie’s involvement in Paul’s preparation, therefore, magnified Whyte’s frustration. While sparring with top fighters is common practice in boxing, the optics of a British heavyweight who owes his career to Joshua assisting his mentor’s opponent rubbed Whyte the wrong way. From his perspective, it’s not just about training; it’s about loyalty, honor, and respect within the sport.
Whyte’s Perspective on Loyalty in Boxing
Whyte’s comments go beyond a personal grievance—they touch on a broader discussion about loyalty in professional boxing. The heavyweight division, particularly in Britain, has seen rapid shifts in alliances, mentorships, and promotional ties. Whyte’s criticism highlights the tension between career advancement and personal loyalty.
“Boxing is about more than just wins and losses,” Whyte emphasized. “It’s about respect, relationships, and the way you treat people who helped you get to where you are. You can’t just forget that when it suits you.” In Whyte’s eyes, Okolie’s actions reflect a larger trend of opportunism and a lack of accountability in the sport, which he finds troubling.
Reactions From Fans and Analysts
The comments have ignited a heated debate among fans and boxing analysts. Some fans sympathize with Whyte, agreeing that Okolie’s choice was disrespectful given Joshua’s mentorship. Others argue that fighters must make decisions that benefit their careers, even if those decisions appear controversial.
Analysts have also pointed out that sparring with different fighters is a routine part of professional boxing. It allows boxers to prepare for various styles and improve their skills. From this perspective, Okolie’s decision might be seen as strategic rather than disloyal, though Whyte’s emotional response highlights the personal stakes involved in such choices.
Looking Ahead: Okolie, Whyte, and the Heavyweight Scene
The feud between Whyte and Okolie may not escalate into a physical confrontation, but it has already cast a spotlight on relationships in the British heavyweight division. Okolie’s rising profile, coupled with his willingness to work with fighters outside his immediate circle, positions him as both a talented contender and a polarizing figure in the eyes of some peers.
For Whyte, the situation reinforces his emphasis on loyalty, respect, and reputation. While Okolie’s career continues to ascend, Whyte remains vocal about what he perceives as a betrayal, signaling that personal ethics are just as important to him as professional achievements.
Conclusion
Dillian Whyte’s criticism of Lawrence Okolie for assisting Jake Paul ahead of the Anthony Joshua fight is more than just locker room drama. It sheds light on the complex dynamics of mentorship, loyalty, and strategy within professional boxing. Whyte’s comments reflect his strong belief in respect and allegiance, particularly when a fighter’s career owes so much to a mentor.
As the heavyweight division evolves, controversies like this serve as a reminder that boxing is not only about skill and power but also about relationships, trust, and the unwritten codes that govern the sport. Whether fans agree with Whyte or view Okolie’s actions as simply strategic, the debate underscores the high stakes and personal passions that define professional boxing in the modern era.
