Charley Larcombe talks to Australian boxer, Tommy ‘The Titan’ Browne on rolling with the punches ahead of his bout this weekend at The Roar of Singapore III.
In light of the late summer’s super-bout between Mayweather and MacGregor, it’s no wonder that boxing is enjoying its time in the spotlight. Undoubtedly many of our ANZA members were glued to the screen to see the undefeated “Money” take on the MMA “Notorious” and go to ten rounds in what turned into a good fight – despite all the fanfare around it. If you’ve caught the boxing bug, you’re in luck with the return of The Roar of Singapore III this month at Suntec.
What does your regime look like?
I normally give myself three months to prepare for a fight. My training in the gym involves a lot of pad work, heavy bag drills, strength training, such as explosive movements, core strength, band work, body weight exercises, rowing machine sprints and sparring. At times, I travel to Las Vegas for intense training camps.
How do you psychologically prepare for a bout?
I believe in myself mentally and physically. I take no short cuts during training. I do have a few nerves before a fight, which keeps me on my toes. I have high expectations of my ability and always want to perform well, not only for myself but for my team and fans. I do everything to win; if you can accept losing, you’ll never be a champion.
I was so sorry to read about the loss of your brother in 2015 and that you had a hiatus from boxing for a couple of years. How haVE your thoughts changed towards the sporT?
Words could never explain the way I feel over the loss of my brother. A big part of me has died. Every fight now, I carry him with me and now we fight together. I feel I’m not satisfied with my career and the sport owes me. On fight night, my mind is very busy. I think about my family. I think about my brother. I think about my fight plan and all the sacrifices I’ve made to be there on the day.
Describe the atmosphere to those who have never attended a match?
The atmosphere on fight night is like a big adrenaline rush. The fans are loud and when you’re walking out to your entrance song, all eyes are on you. It’s like walking down the red carpet. This is what brings us fighters back for more.
What are the highlights of the sport? And the struggles?
My favourite career highlight would be when I challenged for the World Boxing Council (WBC) Featherweight World title.
I naturally, struggle with the loss of
my brother.
What can people expect when coming to watch you fight? Is your style recognisable?
I’m exciting to watch; no toilet calls when I’m on! Don’t even blink. This is what I get paid for, to entertain you. I’m a showman with talent. I have good boxing skills, a lightning jab and power in both hands.
What is your ultimate goal?
Dancing under the lights in Las Vegas for a world title on PPV.
Away from the ring, What do you do to relax?
I love spending time with my wife and two children, and golf with the boys. I also like a good cup of cappuccino in a cafe by the beach.
Talk to us about The Roar of Singapore. What is the audience like here? Does a good audience (knowledgeable, enthusiastic) have any effect on your match?
Singapore is a beautiful clean country and the people are very friendly. My first experience with the Roar of Singapore was world class. The whole event was very well organised and will only get bigger. The audience was big and loud. Having the support definitely gives you that confidence to do well. I had a great time and look forward to returning for the Roar of Singapore III this October.
What do you most enjoy about fighting in Singapore? Do you get to enjoy any down time here?
Scott Farrell and everyone involved with Ringstar Management have done a great job. That’s the reason why we are involved in the Roar of Singapore. I’ll have all my family at my next fight and I’ll enjoy a few days on Sentosa after, celebrating my victory with my new International Boxing Organisation (IBO) Asia-Pacific Super Welterweight belt.
Photos: Ryan Tang
