Welcome back to Season 4 of The Criminal Connection Podcast. I’m your host, Terry Stone, aka the Podfather. Today, we have a special guest, Tony JS, known as the Rhino. Tony holds the unique accolade of being the first Gypsy to turn professional as an MMA fighter. Join us as we dive into his extraordinary journey.
Tony JS, the founder of the Gypsy Mafia, has faced numerous challenges on his path to success. Growing up in the Gypsy community, Tony’s life was anything but ordinary. From a young age, he was immersed in a culture where fighting was a way of life. His journey into the professional fight world was marked by perseverance and resilience.
Tony recounts the hardships he faced, including being shot in the face and enduring a major court case for GBH and extortion, which put his fighting career on hold. Despite these setbacks, Tony emerged stronger, founding 3X Promotions, the only boxing organization with a PBA and German international license to host professional boxing events.
Throughout his career, Tony has achieved remarkable feats. He holds seven MMA titles, including three international ones, and has fought in multiple weight divisions, from welterweight to heavyweight. His success is a testament to his dedication and love for the sport.
Tony’s transition to boxing saw him win the King of the Ring at the O2 Arena with a first-round knockout. His impressive track record has set the stage for his new venture, 3X Boxing, which aims to blend professional fighters with influencers, creating a unique and exciting experience for boxing fans.
During our conversation, Tony shared insights into the Gypsy lifestyle and the challenges he faced within his community. Marrying outside the Gypsy community and pursuing a career in MMA were seen as unconventional choices, but Tony’s determination to succeed kept him focused.
Tony’s story is not just about fighting; it’s about overcoming adversity and staying true to oneself. He speaks candidly about the betrayals he faced and the emotional toll it took on him. Yet, every challenge only fueled his fire for success.
In addition to his fighting career, Tony has made appearances on various reality TV shows, including “Big Fat Gypsy Weddings” and “Gypsy Kids.” His charismatic personality and relentless drive have made him a well-known figure in both the fighting and Gypsy communities.
Tony’s resilience is evident in his ability to bounce back from life’s toughest moments. He shared a harrowing experience of watching a fellow fighter die during a fight and the impact it had on him and his son. Despite such challenges, Tony continues to push forward, driven by a deep passion for fighting and a commitment to his family.
As we wrapped up our conversation, Tony expressed his excitement for the future of 3X Boxing. With plans for major events at the O2 Arena and partnerships with influential fighters, Tony is set to make a significant impact in the boxing world.
Tony JS’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and staying true to one’s passions. His story is an inspiration to anyone facing adversity, proving that with determination and hard work, success is within reach.
Thank you for tuning in to The Criminal Connection Podcast. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share our channel. Stay tuned for more incredible stories from remarkable individuals.