Paul Gallen is no Anthony Mundine. But the former rugby league players turned boxers both know how to attract a crowd.
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There was probably more A-listers in the house when Mundine fought in Wollongong back in 2001 and 2004, the latter a defence of his World Boxing Association super middleweight title.
But there was no shortage of sporting star power at the WIN Entertainment Centre on Wednesday night to watch Gallen take on heavyweight contender Lucas 'Big Daddy" Browne.
Rising Australian professional boxer Tim Tszyu was among a throng of sporting stars ringside.
The majority were rugby league players, including from Gallen's former club Cronulla Sharks.
Lomak was not only there to watch the fight - the Dragons centre was also part of the support crew for Tyler Sargent-Wilson.
The proud Illawarra local Sargent-Wilson maintained his unbeaten pro record on Wednesday night, beating Steven Rados in an epic bout at the WEC.
Trent Merrin, who only retired playing for the Dragons on Wednesday morning, spent Wednesday evening watching the boxing.
No Limit Promotions promoter Tim Ashworth said about 5000 people were on hand for the big fight night.
He said the crowd was probably split 60 to 40 in favour of Gallen.
"i think Gal comes out in front with crowd support because of his ties with rugby league. There are a lot of league players here tonight," Ashworth said.
"Gal is also the underdog so I think many want to see him beat the more fancied Browne.
"The boxing purists in the house though are definitely hoping Lucas wins tonight."
The man they call Big Daddy may have been the favourite with bookies but he stood to take home only 30 per cent of the prize money regardless of the result.
"Lucas will take home just over $100,000 from the fight. Gal stands to earn much more as he brings more eyes to the fight."
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Agron Latifi
Wollongong born and bred. I love reporting about the Illawarra region and have been doing it for more than 20 years. I've moved into sport recently after covering the education round for the last five plus years for the Illawarra Mercury. It's been a great pleasure.
Wollongong born and bred. I love reporting about the Illawarra region and have been doing it for more than 20 years. I've moved into sport recently after covering the education round for the last five plus years for the Illawarra Mercury. It's been a great pleasure.
