The Merthyr Central Library invites residents and boxing enthusiasts to explore an extraordinary exhibition honouring local boxing hero, Eddie Thomas throughout September, commemorating what would have been his 100th year.
The exhibition, running the entire month (excluding September 12th and 13th), offers a comprehensive journey through Thomas’s remarkable life. From his humble beginnings as a coal miner’s son to becoming a celebrated boxer and community leader, the display showcases his incredible amateur and professional boxing career.
Visitors can explore the “Clip Corner” featuring archival videos from the National Libraries, providing an immersive experience into Thomas’s extraordinary boxing career. The exhibition highlights his achievements as Welsh, British, Empire, and European Champion, and his status as the number one challenger to World Champion Sugar Ray Robinson.
Beyond boxing, the exhibition celebrates Thomas’s community contributions, including his heroic role in the Aberfan rescue, his service as a local Independent Councillor, and his tenure as Mayor of Merthyr Tydfil.
The Eddie Thomas Exhibition promises an inspiring journey through local history, sporting excellence, and community spirit.
“Eddie Thomas was like a second father to me, a generous man who would give you his last, a man of his word which isn’t common in the world of boxing. He was well respected in all walks of life and had an enormous aura about him which would light up a room.”
– Colin Jones MBE British, Commonwealth & European Welterweight Champion
“I will always be grateful to Eddie Thomas for coming into my career when I was badly in need of help. I was a boxer, not a promoter, or a businessman and had made some poor decisions. Eddie promoted my contest against Joe Cokes. He helped propel my career back towards world title contention, and I will forever remember that.”
– John Conteh MBE World light-heavyweight champion
