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YORK’S Leo Atang has been tipped to follow in Anthony Joshua’s footsteps after signing professional terms with Matchroom Boxing.

The 18-year-old heavyweight sensation, who is trained by Ashley Martin out of Legions Amateur Boxing Club, has penned a long-term deal that will see him make his professional debut later this year under the guidance of renowned promoter Eddie Hearn.

Atang was a fine rugby league winger before turning his hand to boxing but has emerged as one of the country’s hottest prospects, with his natural power, athleticism and physical presence seeing him rise through the amateur ranks. 

 

 

He is a five-time national champion and stopped Korean Lee Geon Hui in the first round to claim gold at the World Boxing Under-19 World Championships in the USA last year.

The former Archbishop Holgate’s pupil, who will be managed by former World Champion Sunny Edwards, enthused: “It’s a dream come true to sign with Matchroom.

“My team and I have had many good conversations leading to me turning pro.

“But I knew this one just felt right from the start. It’s what I always hoped for.

"We put the work in and we put the hours in. I live the life. My mentality is - push myself the absolute limit and leave no stone unturned.

“I’m fit, I’m strong and I’ll be ready to go with anyone tomorrow. I’ve got what it takes to go to the top of this sport. The future is here.”

Hearn, who is known for developing young talent in the sport, believes the sky is the limit for the young York boxer.

“He is the guy, in my opinion, to follow in the footsteps of Anthony Joshua and ignite the heavyweight division to all kinds of fanbase's across the county,” he said on DAZN.

 

 

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