Terence Crawford’s long-time trainer, Brian ‘Bomac’ McIntyre, made light of his infamous firearms ordeal when flying into Las Vegas for the Canelo vs. Crawford mega-event.
McIntyre, who spent over five weeks behind bars and remanded in custody in the United Kingdom in 2023, joked about avoiding airport checks as he traveled Stateside this week.
Posting on social media, McIntyre said, “Private is always better than first class. No waiting in line, no pre-check, no TSA!”
The comment triggered immediate fan reaction, with one reply cutting straight to the point, “I hope you left your guns at home.”
The remark referenced McIntyre’s 2023 arrest at Manchester Airport after Chris Eubank Jr. defeated Liam Smith. The 54-year-old hit trouble when security found a firearm and live ammunition in his checked luggage.
Manchester court case
The matter was so serious that McIntyre faced a custodial sentence. He eventually pled guilty to firearms offenses in court, with Terence Crawford himself stepping in to vouch for his coach’s character.
Crawford gave a ‘glowing account’ of McIntyre before the Manchester judge. His intervention was pivotal as Bomac avoided further jail time, receiving a 20-month suspended sentence.
As World Boxing News reported at the time, “McIntyre had been remanded in custody since Eubank Jr. vs Liam Smith and only released after the hearing.”
Background
A former heavyweight with a 7-14 record, McIntyre’s own ring career included a 2004 clash with knockout specialist Butterbean, which he survived without being stopped.
His true calling, however, came as a trainer.
Since linking up with Crawford, he has maintained one of the finest modern boxing records, an unbeaten 41-0 benchmark, and undisputed crowns at both super lightweight and welterweight.
When Crawford dismantled Errol Spence Jr., McIntyre was in the corner pulling the strings. WBN shortlisted both men for Fighter and Trainer of the Year accolades.
The UK incident threatened to derail Bomac’s career at the elite level for a short period if the court had imposed a longer sentence. Instead, he returned home and resumed duties with the pound-for-pound superstar.
Now, a couple of years on, he has found the humor in his harrowing ordeal, though not everyone will see it the same way.
McIntyre aims to push Crawford to a career-defining victory over Canelo Alvarez on September 13 at Allegiant Stadium.
About the Author
Phil Jay is a veteran boxing journalist with over 15 years of experience covering the global fight scene. As Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News since 2010, Jay has interviewed dozens of world champions and reported ringside on boxing’s biggest nights. [View all articles by Phil Jay] and learn more about his work in combat sports journalism.