[1] He began his professional career in January 1940, and went on to win his first 42 fights, including victories over Battling Charlie Parkin, Paddy Roche, and Ginger Sadd.
He remained unbeaten until he challenged Ernie Roderick in May 1945 for the vacant British title; Hawkins lost on points.
After beating Jimmy Bray and Agustin Mendicute he fought Dick Turpin in September 1947.
Turpin inflicted the third defeat of Hawkins career after a cut eye cause a sixth round stoppage.
[1] Hawkins died on 27 November 2008 at the Abbeygate care home in Winchester, aged 85, after suffering for Alzheimer's disease for some time.