Boxing: London 2012 Olympic silver medallist John Joe Nevin has ditched plans to forge a professional career under the guidance of Amir Khan and signed up for the amateur World Series of Boxing (WSB) Team Championships.
The Mullingar man will join Ireland’s current European champion Joe Ward in the British Lionhearts squad announced today at the WSB launch in London.
Nevin announced on national television last month that he would be turning pro with Khan’s stable but he did not sign a contract with the 2004 Olympic silver medallist and Super Fight Promotions said this evening they were only made aware of his decision late last night.
"It’s disappointing that John Joe will be staying amateur as I firmly believe that he has potential to make big waves in the professional scene," said Khan. "Nevertheless, I respect his decision ... and I do not rule out possibility of working with him in future.”
Former Irish Olympian and WBA champion Barry McGuigan hosted the WSB launch and said he expects great things from the Irish pair.
“Joe Ward will be a sensation in the World Series of Boxing as he’s an awesome talent. He’ll box at 85kg and that will suit him down to the ground as he’s moving up toward heavyweight all the time," said McGuigan.
“I believe Joe could win it out, he’s that good. John is also an exceptional talent as we saw from his performances at the Olympic Games. They are dynamite additions to any team.”
Ward (19) was prevented from signing with Milan in the WSB two years because he was a year shy of the minimum age.
“I’m looking forward to the extra rounds as there are five rounds in the World Series,” he said today. “It will be a great challenge for me and I can’t wait to get started.
“I think I will be making my debut against Italy in Wales this month. I was disappointed that I couldn’t box in the World Series two years ago but I’m ready to go now.”
Irish coach Eddie Bolger will work with the Moate BC member in the WSB.
The USA Knockouts, including Ireland’s 2012 Olympic bronze medalist Michael Conlan and Seán Turner, are first up for The Lionhearts next week.
The WSB is run by the International Boxing Association (AIBA) and allows amateur boxers fight under pro rules, earn salaries and bonuses, while retaining their Olympic status.
The Lionhearts and the USA are joined in Group B by Italy, Germany, Kazakhstan, Ukraine. Group A consists of Mexico, Azerbaijan, India, Poland, Argentina and Russia.