Pocket Rocket Huey blast off in pro ranks

Malone with Joe Gallagher after win. Picture: Leigh Dawney/Queensberry

IT’S been a long time coming, but Huey Malone’s pro journey has begun smoothly and emphatically with comprehensive victory.

Coventry’s former amateur sensation – tipped for big things – took every round against tough and experienced Pole Jakub Laskowski on Queensberry’s huge Nottingham Arena show.

Malone, a product of dad Brendan’s Christ the King amateur club, cast a long shadow over the domestic amateur scene.

And that impeccable CV means his professional apprenticeship will be played out under the bright lights of arena shows. He is being groomed for stardom by Joe Gallagher at his Moss Side, Manchester, gym.

A medical issue and cancelled bouts had delayed a much-anticipated debut which was announced in November. When his time came on Saturday, Huey grasped the opportunity with both hands.

The 22-year-old Pocket Rocket began with a six rounder against a gritty Pole who had over 40 bouts under his belt. Weighing 9st 9lbs, Malone set a high tempo, kept Laskowski at the end of a flashing jab and worked the body.

“There were a few things I think I could have done better, but I was happy with it,” Huey said. “My jab landed very well and my right hooks pretty well.”

Malone’s list of amateur achievements is long. They include three English titles, three Tri-Nations titles, nine appearances for England and recruitment by the Team GB squad.

No wonder there’s a buzz surrounding Huey.

“I think I had more of a pro style in the amateurs,” he said, “my style is more suited to the pros. I was excited about my debut and glad it was over six rounds because I think I’m made for the longer distances. I’d like to get out again as soon as possible, I have no injuries.

“I spend the week in Manchester and come home at weekends – it’s part of the job.”

Malone added: “I think I can go all the way, I don’t see why not.”

A lot of good judges feel the same.

Dad Brendan said: “The week, the event and the fight was everything I would’ve wanted for Huey for his pro debut.

“The corner was fantastic with him, everything was very calm. The corner was very organised and kept him calm.”

Brendan, too, wants his son back in the ring sooner rather than later.

He added: “There’s talk of a Dublin show in August, we wouldn’t mind going over there. There’s also talk of getting Huey on a small hall show to keep him ticking over. Saturday’s fight will bring people to him, his style of fighting will bring people to him.”