Pocket Rocket Huey joins the paid ranks
Huey Malone…makes his debut on November 2 at Resorts World
HUEY Malone, one of the country’s most exciting and entertaining amateurs, has turned pro – and expect fireworks from a boxer who has adopted the ring name “Pocket Rocket”.
The light-welter, from Allesley, Coventry, has signed with Birmingham’s former world title contender Matt Macklin, is trained by champion-maker Joe Gallagher at his Manchester gym and promoted by Frank Warren’s mighty Queensberry outfit.
The 22-year-old will make his debut on the huge November 2 Resorts World show topped by Liam Davies’ IBO super-bantam defence against Shabaz Masoud.
Huey’s outstanding amateur achievements merit a big stage start to his career and Warren’s interest is understandable.
A product of Coventry’s Christ the King ABC where he was coached by dad Brendan, Huey dominated at domestic level.
He represented England nine times, winning eight, was part of the Team GB set-up for a year-and-a-half, won three national ABA titles – two as a senior – and three GB titles. In all, he lost only nine of 68 contests.
Failure to gain an Olympic place pushed Huey towards the pro ranks.
“We thought it was time to go pro,” said Brendan. “GB asked him to stay on for the Europeans, but it was time for him to go.”
Fans can expect excitement from a young man with an all-action style.
“He is an absolute volume puncher, they come from all angles, Ricky Hatton style body shots,” said Brendan. “He can box, but he’s more ‘get in there’.
“He hasn’t got a bad following, but we’re going to feel that out. We haven’t really promoted Huey, but once he gets going his style will pull people to him.”
Brendan believes his son – part of the Christ the King set-up since the age of 10 – can emerge as a British title contender within 11 bouts.
He stressed: “This isn’t the case of a father pushing his son. He is always looking for stuff (to learn) from me. He’s super-fit and immersed in the game. He studies the game – his idols are Roberto Duran and Julio Cesar Chavez.”
The general public have been put on standby. In the countdown to Bonfire Night a pocket rocket is set to explode – and those around Huey Malone have no doubt he’s heading for the stars.