Legends of Welsh Sport reflects on another sporting icon…
Merthyr Tydfil born boxing legend Johnny Owen is the subject of a brand new documentary which outlines the story of Johnny’s life, the fight that led to his tragic death and the impact on those who loved him.
His brother, Kelvin Owen, coach Dai Gardiner, boxing journalist Steve Bunce as well his opponent on that fateful night in Los Angeles in August 1980, Lupe Pintor are interviewed for the half hour documentary; each recounting his memories of Johnny, known as ‘the matchstick man’ thanks to his tall, thin frame. Friends Yvonne and Jean describe how Johnny was a hero in the local area and how people viewed him as a figure of ‘hope for the Valleys’.
One of eight children, Johnny grew up on the Gurnos estate in Merthyr. Encouraged by his father to learn how to fight in the boxing ring and coached by Dai Gardiner, Johnny was soon making a name for himself. He followed a gruelling training programme running nine miles a day come rain or shine in hobnail boots to increase resistance, over the challenging local terrain.
“His untimely death not only shook the close-knit community of Merthyr but sent shockwaves across the UK. Those closest to him give their account of how it impacted the rest of their lives.” – BBC Wales
Johnny died aged 24 on November 4th, 1980. Owen possessed both an unusually delicate skull and a strong jaw. As a result of a punch, during the Lupe Pintor fight, Owen’s jawbone moved up through his skull and into his brain, causing irreparable damage. Owen underwent a second operation soon after to relieve pressure on his brain but soon contracted pneumonia. Once this had cleared, a third surgery was required but Owen remained unconscious. Although his doctor believed his condition was improving, a second bout of pneumonia sadly saw his demise.
Following his death there were several lasting tributes named after Owen, including a community centre, a pub and the Johnny Owen Carer’s Award which is issued by the Prince Charles Hospital.
Legends of Welsh Sport, tonight at 10.40 pm on BBC One Wales and across the UK on the iPlayer
