Two-time Haringey Box Cup winner Adedeji Adegbola is set to turn professional after signing promotional terms with Frank Warren and Queensberry Promotions.
Adegbola has amassed nearly 60 fights in the amateur ranks, and now he joins Warren's impressive stable of heavyweights with an eye towards making an impact on boxing's glamour division.
The 28-year-old London-based Nigerian fighter plans to parlay his extensive amateur experience into a fruitful professional career, stating that he is "very excited" to get going under the Queensberry banner.
“I came here to box because that is what I did in Nigeria and I didn’t want to go pro there," Adegbola said. "If I am going to do something it has to make sense and, in Nigeria, there is no real promotional encouragement, so I moved to London."
Adegbola arrived in the UK on a study visa as he worked towards his Masters, but continued training in the ring throughout. After finishing university, he remained on the amateur scene until he felt ready to move on to the pros.
“I feel there is never a perfect time for anything, everything is about your mind and my mind is set," he said. "I am ready but I am also going to take my time at this stage because at heavyweight you have a long time.
“Style-wise, I think I am fast. I may not be that heavy but I have got the best footwork. I think I am strong, can take punches and I think I am very smart.”
In London, Adegbola rubbed shoulders with some of the top names in the sport. He says two-time former unified world champion Anthony Joshua "has looked out" for him since moving to England, with AJ even employing Adegbola as a sparring partner ahead of his rematch with Oleksandr Usyk.
“I have a good relationship with him and he has sponsored me coming here for the last few years,” Adegbola said.
As for what the future holds, Warren believes Adegbola made the right choice in joining Queensberry as the fighter prepares to launch his pro career.
“I am thrilled to sign Adedeji and I believe we are about to unleash another very special talent," Warren said. "Queensberry is the place to be for heavyweights and, for all the success we have already enjoyed at the top end, it is important to continually introduce and develop the next generations of champions.
“Everything I hear about Adedeji is positive and exciting and I am so looking forward to seeing him perform.”
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