Jeffries poised to appoint new trainer following split with Rimmer

Sunderland’s Tony Jeffries has split with Manchester-based trainer Bobby Rimmer after 18 months together. Jeffries (7-0-1) has struggled in his previous two contests and saw his 100% professional record blemished after he was held to an eight-round draw by Michael Banbula in July.

Promoter Frank Maloney will make a ‘major announcement’ with regards to the identity of the Olympic bronze medallist’s new full-time trainer within the next fortnight.

Jeffries is currently being trained by Sean Casey for his next fight at Rainton Meadows Arena, Houghton-le-Spring on Saturday 11th September on the undercard of Jason Booth’s IBF super-bantamweight challenge to Steve Molitor. Jeffries’ opponent will be revealed in the next 48 hours.

“The split is no reflection on the job Bobby has done with Tony since they teamed-up. I rate Bobby highly and I hope to continue our good working relationship. He already trains British light-middleweight title contender, Brian Rose who I co-promote, and hopefully there will be other fighters we can work together with. Everyone involved with Tony’s career would like to thank Bobby for all the sacrifices he has made for Tony,” commented Maloney.

Maloney indicated that Jeffries’s long-term future could lay with an American trainer.

The promoter added: “When Tony was in America on holiday I arranged for him to meet with some well known trainers I have personal knowledge of. He enjoyed meeting them, but I have to emphasise no decision has been taken yet. It will be made immediately after the next contest. I am sure Sean will make sure that Tony is well prepared for next week’s test.”