Boxing Punchlines: Tion Gibbs

Tion Gibbs, lightweight, Birmingham. Age, 28. Record, 10-1

When and why did you start boxing ?

I started boxing at 10 because my dad used to watch boxing when I was growing up. From there me and my brother Cori started having full-on straighteners in our livingroom with our little 4oz’s. Loved it from the jump.

Tell me about you amateur debut?

I boxed away on a Priory Park show, outclassed the kid and won on a majority. Gained first hand experience about how shaky boxing decisions could be from my first fight, buzzing.

What was you amateur highlight and most memorable bout?

Winning my first national title is my amateur highlight. Me and my brother Cori won them on back-to-back days and we both had to endure a stint of tonsillitis the following day…a rancid kebab was the culprit. My most memorable bout was boxing Charlie Driscoll in the semi-finals of the Haringey Box Cup. I was the youngest in my category, he was the oldest and he was also number one in the country at his age. I beat him then went on to win the gold medal against a Norwegian in the final.

What was your amateur record and titles won or challenged for?

64 fights, 55 wins. NACYP gold medallist, Haringey gold medallist, ABA silver medallist, NACYP silver medallist, Three Nations bronze medallist, Haringey silver medallist, 11 times Midlands champion.

How did you find the transition from amateur to pro?

I found it quite easy, to be honest. I have more of a professional boxing style than an amateur style. The only thing I struggled with, and have only recently got over, is giving my opponents too much respect.

Tell me now about your professional debut?

Not much to tell, if I’m honest, I boxed a tough guy and beat him on points.

Your professional highlight so far?

Winning my Midlands title (against champ Jack O’Keefe on points in 2021). It’s more of an accomplishment now, when I think back, because I clashed heads with my opponent in the first round and I sustained a concussion from the head clash. I boxed on to beat a 10-0 unbeaten fighter and win the title.

What’s next for you?

All I want to do is test myself against the best fighters. I know who I am and know what I’m capable of, so fighting the best fighters for titles is all I have on my mind right now.

What is the best advice you could give to a young boxer starting out?

Keep a clear vision on the person you want to be and make decisions that person would make.

Interview by DEREK FITZPATRICK

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