Legendary boxing promoter Kellie Maloney, who recently came out as a transgender woman, has said that she is considering returning to boxing.

The promoter and manager of Lennox Lewis – previously known as Frank Maloney – revealed on Sunday that she is transgender.

Speaking to the Mirror today, Kellie Maloney – who retired from boxing last year – said she may consider a return to the sport’s governing body.

She said: “I’d like to go back in there to prove them all wrong because I know I could do it.

“I have to rebrand myself. That is my next mission.

“Given everything I have been through in the last couple of years and the decades of experience in boxing I have gained, I would be able to add a lot to the British Boxing Board of Control and help them step out of the past and into the future.

“It is the sport that has kept me sane through my darkest days and I’d like to give it something back.”

The former UKIP candidate had caused controversy previously by coming out against same-sex marriage, and saying she would ban pride marches.

She also told the BBC in 2004 that she would not campaign in the London borough of Camden, because there were “too many gays”.

Lennox Lewis said yesterday: “I can only imagine what a difficult decision this must be for Kellie.

“However, having taken some time to read Kellie’s statement, I understand better what she, and others in similar situations are going through. I think all people should be allowed to live in a way that brings harmony and inner peace.

“I respect Kellie’s decision and say if this is what brings about true happiness in her life, then so be it.”