Luigi Leo

Luigi Leo, (Lui), actually plays himself in the movie, (despite being shown in the credits as being played by Ken Thomas). Luigi is a former boxer who has coached, managed and enjoyed success at the highest levels of the sport - both amateur and professional. In addition to club coaching he enjoyed success as Team Manager to both England and Barbados at the World Championships, Commonwealth Games, European championships and other notable international tournaments. Lui was Francis' coach in England and responsible for his success in winning the ABA National Title and his transition from amateur to a successful professional. After the making of Southpaw Lui trained and guided Francis to a British Southern Area Title and professional European Union Title. He also coached Albania's first ever professional World champion. Following their exciting adventure together Francis and Lui remains very good friends. Lui has been recognised for his contribution as a volunteer and involvement in sport at grass roots level. Lui continues to coach and continues to lobby the Government to introduce initiatives to encourage school children to take up boxing through dedicated school boxing programmes. In a recent speech by the London Mayor Boris Johnson he referred to Lui as one of London's "unsung Heroes" for his work and contribution in the voluntary sector. Lui continues to follow his passion.