Butlin: The business boss who wants to be British champion

Dave Butlin…approaching the game with eyes wide open

SUTTON Coldfield light-heavy Dave Butlin is a fighter with both feet firmly on the ground, a man who isn’t pinning everything on making a living from boxing.

As the 29-year-old put it: “I don’t believe in putting all my eggs in one basket.”

To that end, Butlin is, by day, at the helm of Bargain Depot, a thriving Birmingham based company buying and selling end-of-line stock.

Butlin was to be on Saturday’s H Suite, Edgbaston bill, promoted by Tommy Owens, but felt the date didn’t give him sufficient time to prepare: “We ran out of time, really,” he said. He hopes to be out before Christmas.

Since turning over in March, Butlin, a product of Tamworth amateur club, has had two contests, winning both on points. He believes he can take titles at super-middle (12st), with the benefit of “day before” weigh-ins.

“In the ring, I enjoy everything about professional boxing,” said the boxing businessman, trained by Alan Keast. “You have a lot more time and a lot more preparation, sparring good people. I’ve been sparring River Wilson-Bent and Troy Jones who likes to throw bombs.”

Butlin has a good following and believes he can take fans on an exciting career journey.

“I’d love to fight on a TV show, just to say I’ve done it,” he said. “I’ve boxed all my life, I only ever wanted to do good, but I look at things different to other people.

“There’s no point putting all your eggs in one basket. I’ve never looked at boxing as my income and I feel that’s the best way to be. If you do, you’ve got more to lose if you don’t get the big fights.”

Butlin added: “I do believe in a couple of years’ time I can win a Midlands title. I believe I can win a British. I’m not saying it will happen, but I’m one of those people who believe in themselves.”