Maloney looks ahead
8 January 2009 – By Jonny Stapleton
The start of 2009 means Frank Maloney is a quarter of a century promoting boxing, and he is predicting his 25th year in the game will be a great one for the quartet of fighters in his stable that are of Irish interest.
Maloney believes his current batch of fighters are the most exciting crop he has ever had, but is confident 2009 will see Darren Sutherland, Jamie Moore, Rendall Munroe and Ian Napa shine brightest with all becoming boxing stars.
The London born promoter of Irish heritage, holds highest hope for Olympic Bronze medalist, Daren Sutherland and claims most believe the Blanchardstown native is the hottest prospect in world boxing.
He also believes former Irish Light-Middleweight Champion Moore, who is of Kilkenny parentage, will eventually replace Michele Piccirillo as champion of Europe.
Maloneys other predicted stars for 2009 are not of Irish decent but are certainly of Irish interest. European Champions Ian Napa and Rendall Munroe are on the radar of Paulie Hyland and Bernard Dunne respectfully.
Dunne and Munroe’s management teams have had a very public spout about a potential continental title clash. Whilst in the build up to Sutherlands paid debut Maloney added to the European speculation surrounding the Hyland brothers by claiming the youngest of the trio could challenge Napa in the New Year.
Maloney said earlier this week, “I believe I have enough fighters in my stable that can become British champions, but in today’s world that doesn’t impress sports editors. Darren Sutherland, Jamie Moore, Rendall Munroe and Ian Napa can go that step further and make headlines in 2009. I would crack open a dozen bottles of champagne if one of these claim a real World Title and a bottle for each that challenges for a real World Title. This is what the public want and demand from boxing promoters.
