Lauren Mackie: “I have grown up watching the Commonwealth Games, so it has always been a dream of mine to compete.”

Lauren Mackie: “I have grown up watching the Commonwealth Games, so it has always been a dream of mine to compete.”

Lauren Mackie has already tasted much success in her flourishing boxing career. The 20-year-old is a national champion and has won medals on the European and World stage. But Mackie is only just getting started. The Northamptonshire fighter will soon be heading to Glasgow to represent her country in the upcoming Commonwealth Games.

“I was buzzing to find out I’d been selected and excited to tell my family and friends,” Mackie told FightPost. “I have grown up watching the Commonwealth Games, so it has always been a dream of mine to compete.”

Mackie has realised her dream. But fighting for England on the Commonwealth stage is just a gateway to even bigger things. “This tournament will be a great stepping stone for my journey to the Olympics,” Mackie says. “It’s also a great opportunity to gain exposure. To be able to box in a well-recognised event that’s televised will hopefully get me a couple more followers and supporters, which will be important if and when I turn pro.”

Expectations are high for the 20-year-old. “I feel confident going into this tournament. I’ve been competing at a high level this year, having already picked up two medals. I feel I’m more than capable of medalling. India always comes with a strong team, so they could be a potential rival for a medal.”

It’s clear Lauren Mackie has Los Angeles and the next Olympics in her sights. “Over the next couple of years, I’d like to be sent to the Olympic qualifiers and secure my spot at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.”

With the long-term aim of competing at the next Olympics, Mackie isn’t looking beyond that. But the world of professional boxing could be looming after 2028. “I’m not sure when I’d turn pro; the Olympics are the goal, so until I’ve achieved that, going pro will have to wait.”