2003, K1 UK
Prior to this tournament, Gary had decided that he would retire if he didn't win - no point in flogging a dead horse! But he prepared well, and gave it every effort. Gary put on weight for this event, weighing in at around 100kg. 

In the first round Gary met the very experienced Thai boxer and pro-boxer, Kenny Gayle. Lighter than Gary, he discovered that size did matter, and was over powered by Gary, who put Kenny to the canvass time after time. A comfortable points win saw Gary go through to the second round. 

Here Gary met Simon Dimitrious - a very fit fighter. From the second the fight started Simon charged at Gary, who responded in kind, and the work rate was high for both fighters. Gary's power and more accurate punches started to turn the fight, and before the end Gary had put Simon on the canvass several times, including for an 8-count. Gary won a hard earnt, but comfortable, victory. 

The final saw a rematch between Gary and Gordon Minors. They had met previously for the WKA Commonwealth Full Contact Title, having competed over 10 rounds for it to end as a draw! This was to settle who was the champion between two friends, from before and at present. Gary took the fight to Gordon straight away, and after a couple of exchanges Gordon blocked Gary's leg kick, collapsed to the ground in pain, with a badly injured shin. Gary therefore became UK K1 Champion 2003 by TKO