Darren Barker Biography: Wife, Age, Boxing, Net Worth, Height, Championship, Career

Darren Barker is a British former professional boxer best known for his reign as the IBF middleweight champion in 2013. Born on May 19, 1982, in Chipping Barnet, London, he had a successful amateur career, including a gold medal win at the 2002 Commonwealth Games.

He turned professional in 2004 and went on to win British, Commonwealth, and European titles before capturing the IBF world title. Following his retirement in 2014 due to injury, Barker transitioned into boxing commentary.

Profile

• Full Name: Darren Barker
• Stage Name: Darren Barker
• Date of Birth: May 19, 1982
• Age: 43 years old
• Birthplace: Chipping Barnet, London, England
• Nationality: British
• Occupation: Former Professional Boxer, Boxing Commentator
• Height: 6 ft 0½ in (184 cm)
• Parents: Terry Barker (father)
• Siblings: Gary Barker
• Spouse: Gemma Kao
• Children: None
• Relationship Status: Engaged
• Net Worth: £75,000

Early Life and Education

Darren Barker was born on May 19, 1982, in Chipping Barnet, London, England. He is 43 years old. He is of British nationality and Caucasian ethnicity.

Barker was raised in a Christian household, describing his family as spiritual and deeply rooted in faith, which provided support during challenging times, such as the loss of his brother, Gary Barker.

His father, Terry Barker, was a successful amateur boxer who won the Amateur Boxing Association (ABA) Championships in 1981. Darren began his boxing journey at a young age, training at Finchley and District Amateur Boxing Club in New Barnet. Information regarding his formal education and additional family members is not publicly documented.

Career

Barker commenced his professional journey on September 24, 2004, securing a victory against journeyman Howard Clarke. Demonstrating consistent performance, he remained undefeated through 2005 and 2006, culminating in clinching the Southern Area Middleweight title by defeating Hussein Osman in September 2006.

However, his burgeoning career faced a temporary halt following the tragic passing of his brother, Gary Barker, in a car accident in December 2006. After a period of mourning, Barker made a successful return to the ring in October 2007.

On November 14, 2007, Barker captured the vacant Commonwealth Middleweight title by outpointing the previously unbeaten Ben Crampton. He defended this title successfully multiple times, including notable victories over Steve Bendall and Jason McKay. In November 2009, Barker added the British Middleweight title to his accolades by defeating Danny Butler, further solidifying his dominance in the domestic boxing scene.

Barker’s European conquest began with a unanimous decision over Affif Belghecham in April 2010, earning him the European Middleweight title. After a brief hiatus due to injury, he reclaimed the title in April 2011 by defeating Domenico Spada. His first world title attempt came on October 1, 2011, against Sergio Martínez for The Ring middleweight championship. Despite a valiant effort, Barker suffered his first professional defeat via an 11th-round knockout.

Undeterred, Barker returned to the ring and, on August 17, 2013, faced Daniel Geale for the IBF Middleweight title. In a grueling contest, Barker was knocked down in the sixth round but showcased remarkable resilience to secure a split-decision victory, becoming the IBF world middleweight champion.

Barker’s reign was short-lived; on December 7, 2013, he defended his title against Felix Sturm in Stuttgart, Germany. Barker suffered a dislocated hip during the bout, leading his corner to throw in the towel in the second round. This injury, coupled with previous hip issues, prompted Barker to announce his retirement from professional boxing in 2014.

Darren Barker concluded his professional career with an impressive record of 26 wins (16 by knockout) and 2 losses. His journey from domestic titles to world champion status, marked by personal tragedy and physical adversity, stands as a testament to his determination and skill within the sport.

Personal Life

Darren Barker, born on May 19, 1982, is not yet married but is happily engaged to his long-term girlfriend, Gemma Kao. The former IBF middleweight champion made headlines when he proposed to Gemma in a heartfelt moment on the pitch at Wembley Stadium, a venue of personal significance for many British sports fans.

The proposal marked a new chapter in Barker’s life beyond boxing, showcasing his romantic side.

Regarding his height, Darren Barker stands at a height of 6 feet (1.83 meters).

Net Worth

Darren Barker, the former IBF middleweight boxing champion, has an estimated net worth ranging between $100,000 and $1 million. His wealth primarily stems from his successful boxing career, where he earned substantial purses, including $400,000 for his bout against Sergio Martínez, $150,000 for facing Daniel Geale, and approximately €1.2 million for his fight with Felix Sturm.

Beyond the ring, Barker has diversified his income through various ventures. He co-founded the 12×3 Gym in Aldgate, London, offering boxing training and fitness programs. Additionally, he has established himself as a boxing commentator, working with platforms like DAZN, which contributes to his ongoing earnings.