Former professional mixed martial artist Darren Towler was given a 24-year sentence for his involvement in a multi-million dollar trafficking operation.
Darren Towler had skipped bail when the police tied him to the notorious enterprise. He had been on the run since March. According to reports, Towler, who is originally from the northeast of England, has traded in coke, pot, and more.
Towler was accused by prosecutor Emma Dowling of having “all the trappings of” what he was accused of. This includes costly watches and luxury cars that he could not explain how he could afford.
Towler was discovered organizing transactions and payments for up to £1 million using encrypted phones.
Towler was handed a 24-year sentence for his participation in the gang that had been responsible for several exchanges of kilograms of stuff worth hundreds of thousands of pounds.
Towler made his MMA debut back in 2008 and continued to compete intermittently until December 2017. He has had some success in the ring, taking home regional championships in the UK and competing for organizations like Cage Rage and BAMMA.
With a current record of 13-8, Towler has won all 13 of his matches through knockout. Additionally, he has fought Phil de Fries, the current KSW heavyweight champion and a UFC vet.
Towler joins a lengthy list of former combat sports competitors who have been involved in legal issues during or after their professional careers.