When he isn’t driving an Isuzu light truck around Townsville, Dean Thomas is a professional boxer who packs a powerful punch.
Thomas is known in the sport often referred to as the Sweet Science by the nickname “Blonde Bomber”.
He had his sixth professional bout on the aptly named “Fighting For the Future” tournament at the Townsville Entertainment Centre on June 26 and beat Palm Islander Patrick Clarke on points over five rounds in the super lightweight division.
That took his pro boxing record to four wins and two losses.
Quietly spoken Thomas works for Digimen which is a sign writing company and I saw him arriving at his local gym in the suburb of Kirwan in the Isuzu.
“We travel all over Townsville and sometimes to nearby places and it is a good truck for the job,” he said.
Thomas trains with Hawks Boxing Club under the watchful eye of now retired truck driver Dennis Clancy.
With Thomas was his Digimen workmate Steve Smith who also drives the Isuzu and boxing club member Jalen Tait.
The gala boxing night had a special theme with organisers hoping to help tackle a massive youth crime problem in the city.
Previously Thomas has fought at Brisbane, Bendigo in Victoria and Townsville.
Before turning professional, Thomas boasted an impressive amateur record and he continues to impress his trainer Dennis Clancy.
More fights will be on offer for the Blonde Bomber this year.
Former NRL footballer Sonny Bill Williams fought in the main bout beating Waikato Falefehi over six rounds.
The 57-56 unanimous points victory continued Williams’ unbeaten streak in the ring, which now stands at eight.