Between the Ropes Author:Jackie Kallen Jackie Kallen, "The First Lady of Boxing," is one of the first and most prominent female managers to find success in the male-dominated world of professional boxing. She is best known for her success in landing James Toney a shot and ultimate win at Lineal & IBF Middleweight Championship. In 1996, she led Bronco McKart to his victory in the WBO ... more »Light Middleweight Title fight, an accomplishment that sealed her status as one of boxing's first successful female managers. Kallen went on to manage additional boxers and nominated for Manager of the Year Award twice. Her life serves as the inspiration for the biopic Against the Ropes, starring Meg Ryan as Kallen. She was also featured alongside Sylvester Stallone and Sugar Ray Leonard in Mark Burnett's reality television series "The Contender." Kallen lives in the Detroit area where she continues to manage fighters, enjoys spending time with her grandchildren, and is looking forward to the grand opening of her new boxing gym.« less