...By Judah Olanisebee for TDPel Media.
Welsh boxer Joe Cordina is not just collecting belts, but canvases as well, as he aims to build a collection of contemporary art.
The 31-year-old fighter is preparing to face Shavkat Rakhimov for the IBF super-featherweight crown tonight in Cardiff, with hopes of becoming a two-time world champion.
Between training sessions, Cordina has been perusing art shops in Mayfair and Marylebone, and has already started building up a collection by purchasing pieces from two artists he particularly admires: the Connor Brothers and Mr Brainwash.
While Cordina has been able to find works of art at affordable prices in Cardiff, the London prices are still too steep for his purse, despite his boxing successes.
Cordina has been buying art steadily, often looking for a bargain, and says he is “starting to build up a little collection.”
He first discovered his love for art when he saw a painting of Muhammad Ali in a shop, and he has been buying pieces ever since.
Cordina hopes that the value of his art will increase over time, making it a wise investment for his future.
Cordina’s interest in art is an unexpected hobby for a boxer, but it demonstrates his multifaceted personality and his desire to explore different areas outside of the ring.
The fact that he is also investing in art shows a forward-thinking mindset that is not often associated with athletes.
Cordina is not only concerned with his immediate success, but is also planning for his future after boxing.
While Cordina has his eyes on becoming a two-time world champion, he is also focused on other investments, including watches.
He hopes that his promoter Eddie Hearn will buy him a watch if he wins the second world title fight.
Cordina’s interest in watches and art shows that he is financially savvy and is always looking for ways to diversify his investments.
