21.07.06 – Many know Frank Maloney for his work in producing world champions of boxing, such as Lennox Lewis, or for his serious bids to become elected Mayor of London but the colorful British bon vivant has also attracted the attention of celebrities in his South London gym. In the past few years, Maloney has trained comedian/actor Ricky “The Office” Gervais, actor Sid “Eastenders” Owen and now rocker Ozzy Osbourne’s son Jack Osbourne, all for their celebrity boxing appearances on the BBC to benefit charity..
Osbourne last week won Sport Relief’s “Battle At The Beeb” by defeating actor/musician Bradley “S Club” McIntosh via unanimous decision during a thrilling contest.
The legendary rocker’s son prepared for his bout under the watchful eye of Maloney at the Maloney Fight Factory gym in South London for weeks and the diligence paid off, literally, with a record of £12,216,598, or $22,582,352, raised for the charity Sport Relief.
Maloney had the chance to speak with Jack’s mother Sharon Osbourne, who was obviously thrilled by her son’s victory. “Sharon said that you can talk about any other sport but there is nothing as sexy as a boxing show,” Frank reports. “She also remarked that boxing is the one sport that has glamour, thrills, excitement and danger and the only one a girl can dress to the nines to attend!”
Maloney started out as a trainer in boxing before becoming a successful manager and promoter and has always set aside time for charitable causes. The self made Peckham born man recognizes the importance of the glamour that celebrities can bring to the sport. “This is the kind of charisma and excitement we need back in boxing,” said Maloney. “European Champion David Haye is attracting the big names back at ringside and I’m confident we can build upon that and bring the sport into the national headlines once again.”