Tommy gunning for the game’s top titles

Tommy Collins…performs at Edgbaston’s H Suite this month

STAFF and management at Edgbaston’s H Suite should brace themselves for a blue and white tsunami.

That’s because on March 24, Tommy “Gun” Collins and his army of Birmingham City supporters will descend on the venue. It will become an extension of St Andrew’s, a very noisy extension.

Few – if any – Birmingham fighters can boast the following Collins enjoys. And with each success, the fanbase grows.

The 24-year-old, a former celebrated amateur, chases his eighth straight win at the venue. The fight is over six rounds, but much more significant battles beckon.

Dad Dean, who serves as Tommy’s trainer, has no doubt big things await the prospect. His belief is unswerving.

This year should see a Midlands title fight for the light-welter – and that’s just the beginning, Dean predicted.

He said: “He can do 10 rounds, we’d go for any title, to be honest.

“I think he’s good enough. He’s sparred well with British and Commonwealth (lightweight) champ Gavin Gwynne. He gave Gwynne great sparring, plus they learned off each other. All great stuff – we’ll probably mix him with some big lads this week.

“Tommy’s just got to keep winning and fighting who they put in front of him, I couldn’t care less who it is he fights.

“He’s an elite fighter who always boxed at the top level as an amateur. It’s step by step.”

Dean hasn’t ruled out a move down to lightweight for his son.

He added: “Tommy’s just paid for a nutrition guide now and is eating much more. He’s always made weight comfortably – in fact, he’s had to fight way heavier most times because lads come in way heavier than he is, but he’s cool and tough.

“Let’s see how we go at super-light (light-welter), which he makes easily. We could possibly do lightweight down the line, you never know.

“As for taking a British title, in my head and watching him, I’d say yes (he can do it). But Tommy makes his own decisions and plans, so I’ll just train him, see where we are and, hopefully, please his fans and put on good shows.”

What the future holds for Tommy Collins is a matter of debate. One thing is certain, however: he’ll enter the ring at the H Suite on March 24 to a deafening roar.

Blues fans may have little to shout about on the pitch, but in the ring there’s all the ingredients for a knees-up. That’s thanks to Collins.