Tom Dallas' manager Mark Roe still believes his fighter could one day be British champion with the right backing
09:34, 26 June 2012
A British title could still be a realistic aim for Chatham heavyweight Tom Dallas, according to his manager Mark Roe.
But Roe believes the six foot six inch St Mary’s boxer needs financial help to take him to the next level.
On Wednesday, Dallas (pictured) was involved in the Prizefighter heavyweight series, where he lost in the semi-finals to Tor Hamer, having beaten fellow Brit Tom Little in the opening round.
Roe said: “I will stick to my guns and say that this kid will win a British championship.
“I would just love him to get a sponsor because at the moment that’s something that is holding us back.
“David Price (current British champion) has shown how it can help. He has gone out to the States and trained out there. That’s the sort of experience Tom needs.
“I would love someone from Kent to come in and get behind Tom, even if it’s just a year, because it would enable us to get the experience we need.”
Roe has previously guided Julius Francis to the British heavyweight crown, as a trainer, and knows what it takes to reach that level.
And he sees enough in Dallas to make the grade.
“There are still a lot of things to do and he is still young and is learning,” said Roe.
“We’ve always known he can punch and we just have to polish the edges. It would be a shame if we can’t do that.
“People have seen his ability and he can carry the flag for Kent.
“Julius did not turn pro until 28 and he had losses but he achieved things. Tom can do the same.”
Dallas, 27, has won 16 and lost 3 and his recent appearances have seen him up against some highly ranked opponents.
A possible show in Gravesend, now planned for September, could give Dallas the chance to shine against a lesser known name.
“Tom needs another building fight and a confidence-booster,” said Roe.
“We can then push him on to a title, either Southern Area or maybe a fight against Richard Towers.”
Towers recently clinched the European (EBU) title.
“The fans are bhind tom and we need a sponsor behind him now,” Roe added.
“He is an exciting fighter and when you see him you see a boxing match. Kent have a boxer to be proud of.”
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