The Source | Boxing legend Lennox Lewis toasts new ventures with exclusive launch of Rocavaka’s Champions Limited Edition Vodka

The chic Le Bar Penelope in New York City was abuzz with anticipation as boxing legend Lennox Lewis launched his latest venture: Rocavaka’s Champions Limited Edition Vodkaon October 13, 2024. Fans, VIP guests and industry insiders came together to celebrate with the champion, marking an exciting crossover from Lewis’ legendary boxing career into the world of premium spirits.

I sat down with Lewis before the event to learn more about his journey with Rocavaka, who is as smooth and refined as his power punch ever was. Speaking about his pivot to business, he highlighted how he sought out partners with similarly high standards: “Dealing with people who are gold medalists or silver medalists and have achieved that kind of acclaim feels natural to me,” he explained. ‘They’ve won medals for their vodka, and when I taste it I know why. It’s smooth, just like me. Made from real grapes, it’s something I would drink when I wanted quality.”

The choice to make vodka from grapes wasn’t just a business decision for Lewis; it also reflects the discipline he has always prioritized. “The same discipline I brought to boxing is here,” he said. “It’s about giving people something that they can say is smooth, flavorful and meaningful, just like I put my all into every fight.”

The launch event was an evening of exclusivity and elegance, starting with a VIP reception where guests enjoyed one-on-one time with Lewis, heard stories from his legendary career and were among the first to experience Rocavaka’s latest expression. The event continued into the evening as attendees mingled over drinks, enjoyed curated canapes and immersed themselves in live music, celebrating a vodka crafted with championship-worthy precision.

I also asked Lennox about advice he would give to young athletes, like Steph Curry, who are exploring similar ventures outside of their main careers. “Perseverance is everything,” he said. “Many people are not persistent, but stick to your vision without shortcuts; that’s what sets you apart. Believe in what you do.”

While we were talking about his favorite music, Lewis mentioned that hip-hop was the key to his workout soundtrack. “Hip-hop was essential to getting excited,” he explained. “Like Mama said: ‘Knock you out’ by LL Cool J was playing, I was getting ready to knock someone out!” Laughing, he added, “That would be one of my favorite songs. Run-DMC too, and certainly DMX. When Mike Tyson came into our fight playing DMX, I thought, ‘Great choice!’” Beyond hip-hop, Lewis remains close to his Jamaican roots. “Reggae takes me back…Chase those crazy bald heads out of town from Bob Marley, and then dancehall artists like Vybz Kartel,” he said.

Lewis’s enthusiasm for Rocavaka wasn’t just limited to the taste; he was closely involved in its development. “I told them I wanted the best vodka available,” he emphasized. “It’s distilled four times and it’s real, made from grapes that give it this softness. If I put my name on it, it has to be championship-worthy.”

I raised a glass to the future and asked what comes next for Rocavaka. “Oh, we’re just getting started,” he said, hinting at possible flavor extensions. “We’re definitely going to grow this, whether it’s new flavors or even more refined flavors.”

Before wrapping up, I asked Lewis if he could give his Champions Edition Rocavaka to anyone in the world, who would it be? After a thoughtful pause, he said, “It should be someone refined and poised. Honestly, my wife, she sips it like you, over ice. This vodka is so smooth that you don’t need to mix it; it was made to be enjoyed as it is.”

The Rocavaka Champions limited edition is both a reflection of Lewis’ legacy and a testament to premium quality. With its own story of discipline and courage in every sip, Rocavaka offers fans the chance to raise a glass to the champion’s next great chapter.

Check out our chat about Rocavaka and more below!