Tributes paid to young boxer killed in crash

A Peterborough boxing coach and legendary former world champion Amir Khan have paid tribute to a popular teenage fighter - who tragically died in a car accident last week.

Eighteen-year-old Jimmy Maloney, a member of Peterborough’s Top Yard School of Boxing and Amir Khan Academy, died when his car was involved in a collision in St Albans last week.

The youngster’s death has sent shock waves through the local boxing community.

Head coach at the Top Yard School of Boxing Balil Javed, 41, said Jimmy was a talented and popular figure - who had sparred with Amir Khan when he visited the club.

“He was a bright, confident young man who wasn’t afraid of getting stuck in to the sessions,” Mr Javed said.

“He quickly became a popular member of the team with his bright personality and boxing talent. He will be dearly missed by all the boxers and coaches at the club.”

Amir Khan also paid tribute to the highly-talented young boxer - sharing a video of the pair sparring together and sending his condolences to the Maloney family on social media.

“I’m saddened to hear the news that the Amir Khan Academy and Top Yard fighter, Jimmy Maloney, sadly passed away,” the former unified world champion said.

“Such a tragic loss. My condolences to the Maloney family.”

Jimmy joined Top Yard School of Boxing, on Cromwell Road, in 2018. Mr Javed said he was a supportive and influential figure at the club.

“Jimmy also helped to train the younger kids and enjoyed passing on his knowledge.

“Jimmy took a short break from boxing due to the Covid restrictions and recently came back to the gym.

“He was at the gym the day before his accident.

“We spoke about him getting fit again and having a comeback fight on our home show in June.”

The boxing community is mourning the loss of Jimmy Maloney