Adegbola joins the Queensberry heavies

Outstanding amateur heavyweight star Adedeji Adegbola is set to turn professional and has signed promotional terms with Frank Warren and Queensberry.

The London-based Nigerian competed in close to 60 fights in the amateur code of the sport, twice winning the Haringey Box Cup and represented his country on numerous occasions in international tournaments.

“I am not going to lie, I am very excited because I have always wanted to be here,” said the 28-year-old on teaming up with the Hall of Fame promoter. “It has taken me a long time to get on this stage and I am going to take my time now.

“Obviously, everybody knows Queensberry is the best promotional organisation in the world and this is a very good opportunity for me.”

“I boxed for my country in the African Games and have had a lot of experiences, winning nationals. When I moved to this country - in Nigeria we don’t keep data - I just had my medical records so I could box for Repton. Since being here my fights have been carded.

“I came here to box because that is what I did in Nigeria and I didn’t want to go pro there. 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.

“I came on a study visa so I had to do my Masters while training at the same time. When I finished university I just concentrated on boxing.

“I feel there is never a perfect time for anything, everything is about your mind and my mind is set. 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.”

Adegbola has enjoyed considerable heavyweight support since landing in London to further his education in the sport and the classroom. Former unified world champion Anthony Joshua has got right behind his countryman, employing him for sparring and endorsing his visa applications.

“He has been looking out for me since I moved in over here. I was one of his sparring partners before he fought Usyk the second time and he wanted me in Saudi Arabia with him, but unfortunately I couldn’t go because of exams.

“I have a good relationship with him and he has sponsored me coming here for the last few years.”

For promoter Warren, adding Adegbola to his heavyweight ranks represents yet another potential star of the division fighting under the Queensberry flag.

“I am thrilled to sign Adedeji and I believe we are about to unleash another very special talent. 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.”