Team USA Standout 'Dedrick Crocklem' Signs to Top Rank

Seven-time national amateur champion Dedrick Crocklem has signed a long-term promotional contract with Top Rank.

The 20-year-old junior lightweight is set to make his professional debut on Friday, January 10, in a four-round bout against Nesly Trezile at the Emerald Queen Casino in his hometown of Tacoma, Washington.

Managed by James Prince and co-promoted by Antonio Leonard, Crocklem won the U.S. Olympic Team Trials last December, marking a significant achievement in his amateur career.

Crocklem shared his excitement, saying, “This opportunity means a lot. I’ve always wanted to turn pro with Top Rank because of how they manage their fighters and the exposure they provide. I chased the Olympic dream and am ready to show I’ll be a top fighter soon.”

Top Rank Chairman Bob Arum expressed his enthusiasm about Crocklem's potential, stating, “Dedrick Crocklem stood out among the Team USA amateurs, and we are excited to watch his professional journey unfold. He has an aggressive, crowd-pleasing style. Tacoma has a rich boxing history, and I believe Dedrick will be his city’s next world champion.”

Throughout his amateur career, Crocklem accumulated over 150 victories, won two Youth National Championships (2020 and 2021), and earned a gold medal at the 2022 National Championships. On the international stage, he claimed a bronze medal at the 2022 Youth World Championships in La Nucía, Spain. He further impressed by winning the U.S. Olympic Team Trials at 139 pounds and defeating top international competitors at the USA Boxing International Invitational in Pueblo, Colorado, in April.

Crocklem moved to Tacoma as a child and began training at age 8 under Jason Hamilton’s guidance. He’ll enter the professional ranks with Hamilton as his chief second, continuing Tacoma’s legacy of boxing excellence. This includes notable figures like 1972 Olympic gold medalist Sugar Ray Seales, 1976 Olympic gold medalist Leo Randolph, former junior welterweight world champion Johnny Bumphus, and two-time junior lightweight world champion Rocky Lockridge.

Reflecting on his roots, Crocklem said, “Being around all the greats in Tacoma means a lot. There’s something special here, and it’s pushing me to be the best.”