Belfast’s Cathy McAleer signs management deal with Kellie Maloney

Belfast world title hopeful Cathy McAleer [3(1)-0] has signed pro terms with Kellie Maloney.

The 41-year-old confirmed the news tonight during the BT Sports Action for Women awards.

The popular kickboxing and MMA convert had been working with Mark Dunlop up and until this point – and that partnership looked successful, particularly when McAleer looked set for a major breakthrough earlier this year.

Within three fights and six months of turning over McAleer had secured a Commonwealth title shot.

The Belfast fighter was on course to make history by challenging Scot Kristen Fraser for the rainbow strap on top of a Europa Hotel September 28 bill.

However, Fraser pulled out of the clash claiming she was ‘disrespected’ in promotional terms.

The history mission looked back on when a super bantamweight Commonwealth title fight with Ellen Simwaka was confirmed for the ‘He Who Dares’ card.

Yet that entire show fell through sometime after and McAleer was left frustrated again.

The frustration was eased somewhat when the ticket seller secured sponsorship from It’s4Women.ie – and she is now hopeful her new manager will keep things on a positive track.

McAleer has teamed up with the experienced if somewhat inactive Maloney and announced the move online tonight.

“I’d like to introduce you to my new Manager Kellie Maloney . I am over the moon to have signed with Kellie an amazing manager with huge experience and knowledge . John Breen and I are looking forward to the journey Along with my sponsor its4women,” McAleer announced.

Maloney hasn’t been too active in the game of late, but was a prominent figure in the 90s.

The English promoter and manager guided the career of former heavyweight champion of the world Lennox Lewis and will be remembered in Ireland as the promoter of the late great Darren Sutherland.