Jim Smith to turn professional with Frank Warren

THE OUTSTANDING AMATEUR star Jim Smith has turned professional and has signed promotional terms with Frank Warren and Queensberry.

The 18-year-old, who has remained undefeated over the last six years, is a six-time National champion and multi-time Box Cup winner with European experience.

Smith hails from good fighting stock, with his father and uncles all having been amateur boxers, while his first cousin is former British champion Hosea Burton.

Smith clocked up 44 wins across his amateur career, suffering just four losses.

“I am unbeaten since the age of 12 and have been to two European Games, won six National titles in a row and a multiple Box Cup winner,” reported the Midlands-based super welterweight.

“I have been around boxing since I was five years old with my dad taking me to gyms and all my uncles fighting. I got into it and loved it.

“I am over the moon to sign with Frank and this is what I have dreamed of since being a kid. He has always been the biggest promoter from what I have seen and he has taken lots of fighters to where they need to be.

“I think he can take me there as well. He knows what to do with young fighters and he handles their careers well and looks after them.

“Frank seems excited to have me and I am excited to be with him and to get going. I just can’t wait now.

“I am a slick fighter who can come forward and I can punch as well!”

Frank Warren added on his new recruit: “Jimmy clearly comes to us with bundles of talent and a fine fighting pedigree. We are always looking towards the future and Jimmy can be a big part of this.

“He is very young and has time on his side, so we will not rush him and will give him the fights he needs to develop correctly and ultimately become a big star.

“I am looking forward to working with Jimmy and getting him into action at the earliest opportunity.”