HATS off promoter Scott Murray for securing one of the very best prospects out there – rampaging Huey Malone – for this month’s instalment of his plush Excelsior Sporting Club.
That’s quite a coup. To date, Malone’s pro career has been played out on major TV arena shows.
On November 27, he’s swapping that for the intimate black tie and evening gown setting of the Excelsior, based at the Premier Suite, Cannock. That’s quite a change.
“It’s all experience, a different sort of atmosphere,” Coventry’s Huey told me. “It’s a Thursday night in Cannock on a dinner show, but I’ll bring a bit of a crowd.”
It’s a special talent for a special evening – the Excelsior’s annual St Andrew’s Night extravaganza, with Murray celebrating his own Scottish heritage with haggis, bagpipes, whisky and a gourmet meal.
Super-lightweight Malone, managed by Matt Macklin and trained by Joe Gallagher, will fight in a six rounder, the opponent yet to be announced.
Macklin and Gallagher’s interest in the 22-year-old is understandable. Huey, a product of Christ the King ABC, enjoyed a glittering amateur career.
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.
He’s two fights into a pro journey that began with major promotional force Queensberry, headed by legend Frank Warren. Surprisingly, Queensberry have decided to sever ties with Malone – simply, I presume, because of the sheer number of young boxers they handle.
The harsh reality is, there are only so many TV slots available, only so many prospects who can fill those slots. Something has to give.
It’s not for me to say Queensberry have made a mistake in parting ways with Malone, but they may have overlooked a diamond.
If you don’t believe me, dust off your dickie bow and book a place at the Excelsior.
Their loss is Murray’s – and Midland boxing’s – gain. For Malone, the door is now open for more local engagements rather than appearances around the country.
Huey told me: “You have to take the positives. Maybe I’ll be a bit more active, maybe I’ll get more support. There are good things about it.”
Malone is already being tipped for titles, but is in no rush to capture belts. “I’m still learning on the job,” he stressed. “When I feel ready and my manager and coach tell me I’m ready, then I’m ready.
“As a pro, you have to put your body into shots more, manage the rounds.”
Last time out, Malone really showed his power, overwhelming usually resilient Karl Sampson in two rounds.
He’s part of a very strong line-up at the Excelsior.
Gloucester’s dangerous and exciting Shabir Haidary will fight a six rounder on the show, Coventry’s hulking heavyweight Big Joe Bourne will serve-up some serious beef and Cork light-heavy Cathal Crowley flies over for his second appearance at the Excelsior.
Crowley should deliver fireworks. The big hitter has lost only one of eight – and that came on points last time out in an Irish title bid.
