ENGLAND-based Zimbabwe-born boxing standout Joe Maphosa has signed a long-term promotional deal with Hall of Fame promoter Frank Warren in a move that will see him making his pro debut in 2017.
BY SPORTS REPORTER
The 22-year-old flyweight and super flyweight rising star joins the Guisborough twins and gym mates Josh and Kalam Leather in signing up with Warren’s growing stable.
Maphosa, who is trained by Imran Naeem at the Natural Progression Boxing Academy in Durham, North East England, believes he possesses the attributes as well as the pedigree to be a crossover success in the professional ring.
Promoter Warren, who has in the past worked with Dereck Chisora, recently signed a multi-year deal with multimedia giants BT Sport and Maphosa can’t wait to propel his name into the limelight on BT Sport and BoxNation.
“I couldn’t have teamed up with Frank at a better time to be honest,” said Maphosa. “I’m really looking forward to showcasing my skills on such a huge platform. Frank has an unrivalled reputation for developing young talent and I can’t wait to get started.
“I’ve got quick hands and quick feet and I pack a punch. I stopped a few in the amateurs so I think I’ll make a smooth transition into the pro game. I like to box clever, but can fight on the front foot when I need to,” he said.
The Zimbabwe-born prospect first laced a pair of boxing gloves at the age of 13 before joining former coach Tony Whitby at the Middlesborough ABC.
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Maphosa won around 60 of his estimated 75 amateur bouts, highlighted by a Golden Belt tournament win in Romania. he also represented Great Britain at the World Series of Boxing in Cuba.
“I’ve got a lot to thank Tony for. I learned a lot from him and he brought me through in boxing and really helped to get me where I am today. It was more about in and out boxing in the amateurs, but I’ve slowed myself down and I think the longer distances like six and eight rounds will suit me more.”
Trainer Imran Naeem said: “Joe has got everything. He boxes southpaw and orthodox equally as well. He boxes well on his front foot, he can be aggressive and cut the ring off, but he can also box on his back foot and be allusive. In terms of his skillset, it’s off the chart, it’s fantastic!
“It’s an exciting time to be involved in boxing in the North East; there’s some real gems up here. Obviously Josh and Kalam have already boxed on BoxNation, but I believe Tommy Ward is the best kept secret in British boxing, the kid is unbelievable. In Joe we have huge potential and I’m honoured to be working with such a talented group of fighters.”
Warren said: “Joe is another excellent addition to our growing team of young talent. He has a strong amateur pedigree and I’m confident that he can make a smooth transition into the professional ranks.
“I’m looking forward to watching his debut and watching him grow and mature as a fighter. We are committed to developing pro boxing in the North East and I’m sure we have a future star on our hands in Joe.”
