By Chris Cella
Following his impressive performance at the London Olympics this past summer, Ireland’s 23-year-old bantamweight silver medalist John Joe Nevin made the decision to leave behind the amateur fight scene and pursue his dream of fighting as a professional.
In 2008, Nevin won the Irish National boxing title and became one of the biggest amateur standouts, being dubbed ‘The Golden Boy’ of Irish boxing.
Last month, on October 6, Nevin announced publicly on The Saturday Night Show his intentions of turning professional, and it was said that he would be signing a pro contract with former world champion Amir Khan’s company, Super Fight Promotions.
But earlier today, Nevin has announced he has changed his mind and will remain an amateur, and will be competing in the upcoming World Series of Boxing tournament, representing the British Lionhearts.
It is uncertain if Nevin chose to remain an amateur to have a chance to possibly fight for gold in the 2016 Olympics, or if he wants to gain more experience inside the ring before embarking on his pro career.
An Irish Traveller, Nevin did more than surpass expectations when he represented his home country and brought home the silver. The slick and crafty bantamweight has stated that he wants his legacy from the Olympic Games to be a closer relationship between Travellers and the settled community.
There is no doubt that the silver medalist did both communities and his country proud, and will continue to do so in what promises to be a rewarding future inside the ropes for the young fighter.