Michael Holmes became enraged with his victim and pulled the trigger on the crossbow but it failed to fire correctly and the bolt missed, a court heard.
The 42-year-old bare-knuckle fighter, known as Rocky, was branded a violent bully as he was locked up for his vile attacks on the woman.
In another incident, the well-built bully punched the woman three times to the face leaving her with a broken nose.
A judge warned family members that he would not tolerate any outbursts or the displaying of supportive T-shirts while he passed sentence on the convicted rapist.
Judge Jonathan Carroll branded Holmes a dangerous offender as he passed a 19-year extended prison sentence.
“You used your size and dominating personality to act as you wished,” he said. “You showed a complete disregard for her wishes and feelings.
“You are a sexual, physical and emotional bully. You used force and intimidation to suppress her wishes.”
Dealing with one of the violent attacks, the judge added: “You delivered three blows to her face breaking her nose leaving her needing surgery.
“I bear in mind your physical size and bulk and your chosen career as a bare-knuckle prize fighter compared to the relative size of your victim.”
Michael Holmes (Image: Durham Constabulary)
Holmes, of Virginia Court, West Cornforth, County Durham, was convicted of two counts of rape, one count of attempted rape, sexual assault, causing grievous bodily harm with intent, and attempting to cause grievous bodily harm.
Michael Bunch, prosecuting, said the attacks had left the woman feeling isolated and terrified.
In a victim impact statement, the woman said: “He has caused me to lose everything from my life.”
Christopher Morrison, mitigating, said his client continues to deny the offences but reminded the judge that it was not unusual in cases like his.
Holmes was handed a 16-year prison sentence with three years on extended licence.
He was also made subject of an indefinite restraining order and issued with a life-long sexual harm prevention order.
And speaking after Holmes was jailed, Detective Constable Rebecca Horner, from South Durham Safeguarding Team, said: “Holmes is a violent and controlling bully who is a danger to women, so I am pleased he is now off the streets and behind bars.
“The woman in this case has shown immense bravery in coming forward to police and helping us to bring her abuser to justice.
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“While I know the outcome of this case won’t rid her of the memories of Holmes’ attacks, I truly hope today’s sentence will provide additional strength for her to rebuild her life.
“As a force, we are committed to helping survivors of domestic abuse and bringing perpetrators before the courts.
“Nobody should tolerate this kind of behaviour – if you or someone you know is suffering at the hands of another, tell us.
“It’s important to remember you are not alone.”
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