Last Updated on August 15, 2026
Tyson Fury, the man who made a career out of knocking opponents flat in the ring, is now celebrating victory in an entirely different arena: the racecourse.
The former world heavyweight champion might be more used to uppercuts and title belts than paddocks and photo finishes, but his first taste of racehorse ownership has been an early success. His filly Big Gypsy King – named after Fury’s own boxing nickname – absolutely clobbered the competition at Chelmsford, storming home in a 7-furlong handicap by nearly five lengths. That’s what you call a knockout performance.
Enter the Big Gypsy King
Big Gypsy King, a daughter of Sea The Moon, had a modest start to her career. She initially ran under Darryll Holland but transferred to joint-trainers Paul and Oliver Cole earlier this year. Since then, she’s shown the sort of improvement that would get her a “comeback of the year” award in boxing terms.
Her Chelmsford win was just her second outing for the Coles, and jockey Rossa Ryan gave her a peach of a ride. She made all the running and didn’t look back, hitting the line four and three-quarter lengths ahead of the field. For Fury, it was the perfect debut success as a racehorse owner.
From Saudi Arabia to the Winners’ Enclosure
Fury’s foray into the world of racing came about through a connection with his manager Spencer Brown – who already has an interest in another horse, Champagne Powder, trained at Whatcombe. The duo have clearly caught the racing bug, and it sounds like they’re loving every second of it.
Although Tyson hasn’t yet visited the Oxfordshire training yard, trainer Oliver Cole says he’s “really enjoying the experience” and is keen to come down. And let’s face it, who wouldn’t want to see a 6ft 9in boxing icon trying to squeeze into the parade ring for a trophy photo?
Cole has nothing but praise for the ownership duo, calling them “easy and straightforward” – and delighted with how invested they are in the sport. “We’re very lucky to have them,” he added. “It’s an honour to have them in the yard.”
From the Manton Mauler to the Gypsy King
The story also comes full circle thanks to trainer Darryll Holland, who first trained Big Gypsy King. He may be known now for training racehorses, but back in the day, Holland had boxing credentials of his own. He once won the Stable Lads’ Boxing competition as a teenager and was known as the “Manton Mauler” – though he’s made it clear he won’t be volunteering to spar with Tyson any time soon.
“I was never beaten,” Holland said proudly. “But I only fought three times – and Tyson probably eats that many opponents for breakfast.”
Still, it was Holland who helped bring Fury into the racing fold, originally arranging for the filly’s first start at Newmarket last August under the Goldstar Promotions banner. While the debut wasn’t a winning one (she finished last), patience has paid off.
From Knockout Win to a Flat Run – What’s Next for Big Gypsy King?
After her emphatic Chelmsford win, Big Gypsy King was turned out quickly for another crack at a 7-furlong handicap at Kempton just four days later. This time, though, she didn’t pack quite the same punch – finishing 7th of 8.
She raced a bit too keenly early on, found herself short of room after a couple of furlongs, and faded in the final stages. Trainer Oliver Cole explained afterwards that she had simply “run flat” after her recent win, which came as no surprise given the short turnaround. Even champions need a breather.
Still, it’s all part of the learning curve for a young filly – and for a new owner like Tyson Fury, too. The talent’s there, and so is the enthusiasm. With more time between races and a step back in class or trip, Big Gypsy King could easily bounce back. Just like her namesake, she’s unlikely to stay down for long.
