Norman: I want to be known as Nightmare

Dylan Norman…itching for a title shot in 2026. Picture: Michael Ault

DYLAN Norman, the scrapper from Shirley, has a new ring name. The Nightmare.

“That’s because the longer the fight goes on, the better I become,” the unbeaten 25-year-old explained. He wants to carve a reputation as the one others avoid.

And Norman, who is backed by an army of fans, has pledged this is the year for conquest. He’s looking for a Midlands title fight sooner rather than later – and that bid for a belt will be at lightweight.

With a day-before weigh-in and nutritionist on board, he’s confident the nine-and-a-half stone division is achievable.

Now trained by John Costello and in the same gym as top light-middle Ryan Kelly, Norman gets ready for bigger things with a six rounder on March 29. He’s part of BCB’s “Danger Zone” show at Birmingham Conference Centre.

Dylan, who’ll be taking part in his 12th contest, has promised fans the devastation has been cranked-up: the excitement was always there.

“I’m stronger in the gym,” he said. “I’m so different, sometimes I don’t even recognise myself. I’ve more belief and belief is a big part of the boxing game. My team – Costello, Kelly and Paddy Byrne – have instilled that belief into me.”

Norman, now fighting under the BCB banner, returned to ring in November after being sidelined for nine months with a serious, career threatening hip injury.

He’s now fully fit, firing on all cylinders and hunting for serious scalps.

“It’s like the injury never existed,” Norman said. “I feel more dangerous than I’ve ever been. I’m ready to go. It’s Midlands title minimum and I believe I can get to the very top. The Midlands first and take it from there. I owe it to my fans to get a title shot.”

Norman needs a real test – Costello will know that. His last six victories have been over men with more losses than wins and the time has come for Dylan to show his credentials at another level.

Norman’s an all-action box-fighter and that aggressive style has earned him a following that is steadily growing. He’s a very popular boxer.

Explaining his box-office appeal, he added: “I think I’m humble, I give value-for-money. I think I’m old school and that’s what boxing is missing. Too many fighters try to hit and run. Boxing is about biting on your gumshield and taking a risk.

“At the end of fights. I shake everyone’s hand because they are spending money they’ve worked hard for to see me.”

For Norman, sponsored by Allens Caravans and Glasstower Jewellery, the risks are set to increase in 2026. That’s the way he wants it.