Blackpool boxer Thomas Varey in 2026 title contention
A rising boxing prospect who travels from Accrington to train with Andy Abrol at Blackpool’s Sharpstyle gym has won his first bout of 2026 with a dramatic fifth round knockout.
Thomas Varey stopped Ugandan boxer Andrew Kikonyogo on a Bolton show organised by his manager Steve Wood’s VIP Promotions.
“A quality performance from Thomas against a strong, previously unbeaten fighter keen to win,” said coach Andy Abrol.
“This brought out the best in Thomas as his opponent pressed forward allowing our fighter to maximise his power as he positioned himself in such a way that Andrew walked into the shots. Thomas has developed what we call his boxing IQ.
“Thomas had taken the first four rounds comfortably and in the fifth the opponent charged out determined to turn the fight around. He overstepped on his front foot allowing Thomas to catch him with a well-timed left hook. It was obvious this had shaken the opponent.
“Thomas took advantage with a barrage of shots which went unanswered leading the referee to wave off the contest.”
Thomas Varey turns 21 in April. He’s now undefeated in twelve professional bouts since joining the paid ranks in 2023 aged just 18. This was his fourth bout not to go the scheduled distance and he’s now positioned 19th out of 122 active British professionals in the lightweight division according to BoxRec, the sport’s official database.
“I’m pleased with how it went,” said Thomas. “I’m good at sticking to the game plan and listening to advice from my corner. I wouldn’t dare not. The better the opponent the better I box. I’m hoping to go for an area belt later this year. The central area super lightweight title has been mentioned.
“We’ll have to see but I’m keen to follow in the footsteps of the boxers I train with such as Jake Abrol and Brad Rea who’ve all had recent success. The world’s my oyster.”
All elite athletes require sponsorship. Thomas is grateful to sponsors Nigel Waldie and 11.11 Management. Further potential sponsors should contact Andy Abrol by e-mail at [email protected] or via Instagram @sharpstyle_boxing .