NBC.com

LENNOX LEWIS

Heavyweight-Boxing Champion

Interview

Let's put the million-dollar question out there first. You've achieved fame and success in your life. Why put yourself through the often-brutal Apprentice process?

I've always been a fan of the show, and this time it's for charity. I'm also naturally very competitive and enjoy a challenge.

What do you admire most about Donald Trump? Do you see a correlation between him and you in the sense that you are both famous AND business people?

I admire Donald Trump because he's a master of real estate and an evolving leader. He's been able to use his talent and business skills to crossover into the media and entertainment world. We possess many of the same traits - ambition, skill, dedication and business savvy - which have allowed us to excel to the top of our fields.

I was always prepared for challenges inside and outside of the ring. Like him, I've been able to capitalize on my initial successes and the skills that I gained in my first industry and use them in other ventures.

"Success" can mean different things to different people; what does it mean to you?

To me success is meeting the goals you've set for yourself and overcoming the challenges that face you personally. You should never look for external confirmation to determine success.

Why should you be Donald Trump's celebrity Apprentice?

Trump is looking for a hardworking, innovative and fearless leader. As former Heavyweight Champion, I have faced extreme mental and physical challenges that have prepared me to excel at any challenge.

Since you are in the public spotlight, people already know a great deal about you. What's one thing that the public may not know?

I love practical jokes.

If you could be the star of any movie ever made, which star and which movie would it be and why?

Russell Crowe in "Gladiator." Boxing is similar to being a gladiator in that there are both physical and mental challenges, but Crowe's character was also on a personal mission for his family. My desire to become Heavyweight Champion was a personal goal, but also was something I wanted to benefit my family and other young kids who have dreams.

What are your three favorite albums of all time?

Bob Marley, "Uprising"

Prince, "Sign 'O' the Times"

Michael Jackson, "Off The Wall"

What are your three favorite books of all time?

"The Art of War" by Sun Tzu

"Of Mice and Men" by John Steinbeck

"Muhammad Ali: His Life and Times" by Thomas Hauser