POPULAR Boxer-turned-actor ‘Big Joe’ Egan will be visiting Kidderminster next week to visit the town’s first dedicated boxing gym for two decades.
The 50-year-old star will be at Mikey’s Boxing Gym, in Whitehouse Road, on Thursday October 20 from 6pm.
He will be meeting fans and checking out the 8,000 square feet gym’s facilities including its 18ft-ring, 20 punch bags and speed balls.
Joe enjoyed a colourful amateur and pro boxing career, training with Floyd Patterson and becoming a sparring partner and close friend of the then new heavyweight champion of the world Mike Tyson.
His other career highlights include taking Lennox Lewis to the distance and defeating Bruce Seldon – a win Joe ranks as his best.
After quitting boxing, Joe forged a career in acting – securing roles in more than 25 years including 'Cass', 'Dead Man Running' and 'Freight' (2010).
Michael Mikolajczyk, who runs the gym with his wife Kara, said: “We are absolutely delighted that Joe has agreed to pay us a visit.
“He is an amazing character with so many fascinating stories to tell. He will be an inspiration for all of our young boxers. It will be a great event.”
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