INTERVIEW: Darren Gibbons

By Boxing News - 10/16/2018 - Comments

By Oliver McManus: Darren, thank you for speaking to me, how did you first get started in boxing?

“I firstly began through a friend who was currently boxing at the time. I saw and liked what he did so I began to research the boxing platform and here I am a professional, 3 and 0.”

And at what point did you really think about turning professional?

“From the beginning I always wanted to become a professional so it was always an objective of mine. Never really had an idea when and at what point of my life however I always wanted to put my studies first before my professional pursuit.”

You made your debut in November of last year, how did that feel? Were they any nerves?

“To be honest with you, for my first fight the nerves were not really a factor, I was just keen to get the first fight out the way and I got in the ring and got the job done without any issues.”

That last fight, against Aaron Green, were you surprised at how quick he came out of the blocks?

“When fighting Aaron Green I was not surprised about his approach as it was his debut. I knew it could be messy, I knew how I was gonna knock him out and in my fourth fight I would be expecting someone that rushes out again but I’ll deal with him even more convincingly.”

Are there any particular areas that you are looking to develop?

“I am looking to develop how I cope when I’m being put under pressure in terms of getting pushed back and my work against the ropes as my trainer has noticed a few mistakes I make when in this situation. I also need to develop my concentration because sometimes I can let the target get away from me and take my foot off the gas.”

How soon, then, can we see you in and around the title mix?

“I believe next year would be great – there’s no-one in particular that I’m targeting because I just like to box, the political side I try to stay away from as it is not in my nature to act a fool and often when we look at it from the outside it can get really embarrassing for when things don’t go to plan.”

You still have a job outside of boxing, how easy do you find it to fit training around work?

“Yes, I do have a job outside of boxing which could be difficult to juggle at times as my work I is physical. What keeps me going is the passion I have for boxing, without it being a passion it will just be a burden.”

Finally, then, what is your message to those reading this?

“Keep your eyes peeled – November 3rd at York Hall, I’m in my fourth professional fight and the journey is just beginning.”

Darren Gibbons is out on November 3rd as part of British Warriors’ stacked York Hall card featuring Jay Harris’ Commonwealth title defence as well as Kirk Garvey vs Andre Sterling for the Southern Area light-heavyweight title and Scottish sensation Hannah Rankin also fights.

Tickets available directly from Darren on 07984516430.