2003, K1 Spain, Barcelona
With another late call up, this time two week's notice, Gary traveled to Barcelona for K1 Spain. Here he met Daniel Perez in the first round - a very deceptive fighter. Daniel looks really out of shape, around 6'2" and 130kg with a wide girth! But he hits hard, is technical, can really take a shot. Gary worked hard to achieve a very comfortable points win, after seeing Daniel soak up three rounds of punishment but not being too worried by it!

The semi-final saw Gary meet Alexander Ustinov, the 6'7" 125kg Russian K1 Champion. Gary's technique had really improved on his previous K1 outings, and scored with effective leg kicks and hooks. Gary's defence was very good, and needed to be, with Ustinov using his reach to full advantage with punches, high kicks and knees. Despite being very even in the ring, both fighters cleanly hitting each other about the same amount, Alexander was more impressive with his big knees and kicks. Alexander took the points victory, and then the tournament when he KO'd his opponent in the final. Again, something he hadn't been able to do against Gary.