Boxing Punchlines: Tommy Owens
Tommy Owens, former fighter turned Birmingham promoter, aged 40
You are the man behind TOP (Tommy Owens Promotions,) tell us how when and why you decided to get into the world of promoting?
Well, my pro career was short lived, I loved the sport and wanted stay involved. I just couldn’t walk away, so I got my trainer’s and manager’s licence. It just evolved into promoting from there.
When and where was your first show and what memories do you have of the event?
My first show was October 19, 2012, at the Holiday Inn (old Albany hotel) in Birmingham city centre. We had some great talent on the show including Don Broadhurst, Sam Eggington, Tommy Langford, Sullivan Mason and we had Andrew Patterson vs Steve Spence for a British Masters belt. What a fight that was!
How many shows have you promoted and how many are scheduled for the remainder of 2023?
I’ve promoted 75 shows since I started and we’ve got three more to see out 2023.
What has been the stand-out show and stand-out fight you’ve promoted?
Best show I promoted was inaugural TOPBOXER tournament early this year, but there’s another that will always stand out for me. That was the Battle Cry show on May 14, 2016, when Dan Breeze beat Natty Howell - my favourite fight to date still
On your shows you regularly showcase some of the Midlands best talent. For you, who really stands out?
Of course, Nyall Berry stands out here and I expect him to be fighting for the British title within 12months. Niall Farrell is definitely one to watch - very good pedigree. I thoroughly enjoy watching Jess Barry and Danny Quartermaine is a very exciting, hard hitter. We are looking to get him a Midlands title fight in September or an English eliminator, if we can get it approved.
What would be a dream venue for you to promote at?
I honestly always fancied putting the ring on the pitch at the Villa and we were very close, only for Covid to hit. I also like the look of the Symphony Hall. I think that would be a great venue.
As a former fighter, what is the best advice you could give an aspiring professional?
Live the life of a professional, always stay in shape as you never know when your big opportunity will come knocking. It would be a shame to miss out because going out drinking with your mates looked more appealing than training.
Interview by DEREK FITZPATRICK