Q&A - Dean Gillen
- britishboxingblog
- Jan 23, 2016
- 6 min read
We love our Q&A section at British Boxing Blog. It gives an unedited view of boxers' thoughts and opinions on a range of issues. On occasion, however we look to factor the quotes into a written or edited piece, depending on the current topics. That was not possible with Dean Gillen. His answers were detailed, personal and truly fascinating. Most people would agree that being a fireman or a pro boxer would be hard work. "Deano" talks about balancing both with a busy family life below. If that wasn't enough he also regularly contributes to several media outlets!
British Boxing Blog - How did you get into boxing?
Dean Gillen - I first started out kickboxing, but I was better with my hands than legs, so I naturally progressed to boxing. After joining the Fire Service I gained my amateur card so that I could compete in the Word Police and Firefighter Games. They are a bi-annual event, a little like the Olympics for the Emergency services and are the 3rd largest multi sporting event in the world attracting 10,000 competitors!
BBB - Who are your boxing idols?
DG - Being from Nottingham I've followed Froch from the start and it's been really enjoyable and inspiring watching his career develop and thrive! His old school style really resonates with me as I love watching a good tear up, he obviously never disappoints! When people are asked this question they often state all the best boxers that are or were un-beaten. I actually prefer fighters that suffer a loss, but continue to believe and come back, the Froch v Bute fight illustrates this perfectly! That trait is really honourable and shows the measure of a man. Other boxers that I like for various reasons are Lennox Lewis and Frank Bruno.
BBB - At 33 you're a little older than most new professionals, why did you decide to make the leap over?
DG - You're right, and although I'm older than most other pro boxers starting out, I actually have less amateur experience compared to my younger counterparts. For me, becoming professional in my chosen sport is an achievement to be proud of. I concentrated on family life and work in my early 20's. However, when my children started school, working shifts gave me the time to train in order to become proficient and fit enough to gain my professional licence. I took the leap as I thought, it's better late than never! Also, every parent wants their children to be happy and fulfil their dreams. How could I encourage my children to chase after their dreams, if I hadn't done so myself? This is my quote that I live by, "you only fail, when you fail to try"!
BBB - What are the main differences of fighting in the paid ranks compared to other codes?
DG - The training required for boxing is tough regardless, but the training as a professional gets ramped up a level. In terms of fighting, pro's hit so much harder and shots that would normally drop fighters in the amateurs don't have the same effect on the pro's! The pressure to perform increases as a pro also, as people have paid good money to come and support you.
BBB - What is easier; fighting fires or fighting pro boxers?
DG - This is a tough one! But, I think fighting pro boxers is tougher! The simple reason is that fires are predictable and the training we complete is so extensive we understand fire behaviour and can deal with it accordingly. I also refer to "we" which is another reason why fighting fires is easier. This is because you fight fires as part of a close knit team that look out for each other. Unlike the the ring, which is a lonely place as you're on your own! Don't get me wrong, fire-fighting is tough. But after 12 years service, I'm accustomed to it, whereas I'm still new to pro boxing!
BBB - Last time out you faced Indian superstar Vijender Singh in Dublin on Boxnation. How was that overall experience?
DG - Although I lost and in almost the worst way possible, I'm glad I took the fight as that kind of
experience is priceless and just what I need. Boxing on the big stage, against a former Olympian was an honour. It was like a Sunday league football team playing Man Utd. I will fight anyone and will always believe I can win. The odds may be stacked against you, but you always stand a chance! Vijender is very sharp and he capitalised on the mistakes I made. My lack of experience showed, but with each fight I'll grow regardless of result. You only lose if you fail to learn! (I love all these motivational quotes haha).
In any case, I had some small victories that I can take from it. Regardless of my lack of experience, I had the minerals to take the fight and didn't get over awed by the occasion or opponent. I thought I won the jab exchanges, I remember we landed jabs simultaneously, but my jab pushed him back. I also clipped Vijender with a left hook that seemed to rock him. Ultimately, I took one shot that I couldn't recover from, that can happen in boxing but especially when you're jumping in the ring against opponents that are levels above you. I'd do it all again in a heart beat!
BBB - Have you any word on when you will be out next?
DG - I can confirm that my next fight will be in Manchester on the 20th February. It's against unbeaten Craig Bunn in an 8 rounder for the junior super middleweight challenge belt. So I'll not only be stepping up a weight, but also stepping through the ropes against another tough opponent!
You could say "I'm stepping out of the frying pan and into the fire"! I like it hot!
BBB - Do you consider yourself a boxing fan when you're not in the ring yourself? If so which are your favourite active fighters?
DG - Absolutely, in all honesty I consider myself a boxing fan first and foremost. I really like Billy Joe Saunders, he's a middleweight too and I'd love to share a ring with him. You never know, I could get to spar him at some point. One thing I've learnt is never say never! There's always the entertainment factor when Tyson Fury is involved in fights. I really like the fact he has such an awkward style and can so move well for a big guy!
BBB - As well as boxing, we recently discovered you also have several writing columns for various outlets. How do you find the time?!
DG - That's correct. I currently write for British Boxing News, Boxing News and Views and Nottingham Local News. In all honesty this is something I never expected, but I really enjoy it! Obviously I work full time as a fire-fighter, try to train like I'm a full time pro, I also have three children and a wife to keep happy too, as well as the usual chores of running a family home, so you're right I am busy, but if you enjoy something you make the time! Writing is new to me and I do the best I can. I'm the kind of person that if I'm doing something, I'll want to do it right and give it 110%. So I'm currently looking at courses to attend in order to develop the writing side of things. To fit that in, the household chores will have to take a back seat - I'm sure my wife would say they're already in the boot! haha!
BBB - Apart from yourself, who should we keep an eye on as we go on into 2016?
DG - I'll always support and encourage others to support local teams and talent, or other local people willing to give it a go, like me! Nottingham produced a World Champion in Carl Froch and thankfully there's plenty of other fighter's from Nottingham trying to follow in Froch's footsteps. He set the bar very high though! Here's a few of my local lads to keep an eye on, if you're not already; Lethal Leigh Wood, Adam Kettleborough, Nathan Mcintosh, Jamie Williams, Daryl Baptist and Dec Spelman.
BBB - And finally, what does 2016 hold for the "Fighting Fireman"?
DG - In all honesty who knows? I can't say that I have a path planned, prospects have plans and I'm no prospect. I'm just an "older" guy living the dream and trying to achieve all I can. I'll be doing it the hard way fighting anyone, anywhere. However, one things for sure, I'll be fighting to win!
If I can get into a position to fight for the Midlands Area title before I call it a day, I'll be happy and if I can win it, I'll be over the moon!
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