McGowan thanks to top trainer Shannon

Shannon travelled from Manchester to help out Team Sykes in Gary’s English title victory over Jonny Kays.

Speaking after the 24th win of Gary’s career McGowan said: “Bob Shannon is a star and we didn’t want to work with anyone else.

“Bob isn’t a cuts man, he’s a damn good trainer who happens to be able to do cuts. He’s a motivator and reads a fight really well and its great working with him and John Tallant.

“Bob gave us a really good compliment because his mother isn’t well at the moment and he didn’t fancy making the trip. He is a busy man and has his own gym but as soon as he knew it was for Gary Sykes he agreed because he believes we are really good people.

“Bob has guaranteed to work with us in the future and there is a great deal of respect. It should be me handed up to him not the other way round but the respect I have for him is immense.”