Billy Morgan is promising to uphold a proud East End tradition when he begins his professional career next weekend.

 

The 20-year-old ace learnt his trade at the world famous West Ham ABC gym.

 

And now he wants to follow in the footsteps of the likes of Terry Spinks, Nigel Benn and more recently Kevin Mitchell.

 

Morgan makes his highly anticipated debut at York Hall on the undercard of Liam Walsh's Commonwealth Super-Featherweight title challenge, live on Sky Sports

 

And he has been preparing for his big day by sparring with former world title challenger Mitchell.

 

"Billy's a top talent and people are going to be impressed when they see him fight," said Mark Tibbs, who trains Morgan alongside father Jimmy.

 

"He's still got a bit of learning to do and at 20 he's not fully matured yet physically.

 

"But give him a few learning fights and he is definitely one to watch. Everything is there to make him a future star.

 

"He's got a great style and he mixes between head and body really well."

 

As well as working with Kevin Mitchell, Morgan has also sparred Vinny Mitchell, and shared a ring with Billy Joe Saunders.

 

"Billy's picking up things all the time," explained Mark. "He got a great education at West Ham and he's improved in the short space of time we had him in the gym."

 

Morgan began boxing at the age of 11 in order to keep fit for football.

 

But his talent soon became obvious.

 

Capped 12 times for England, he captained his country on four occasions and won a host of amateur honours.

 

He is a two-time Junior ABA champion, Four Nations Gold Medallist, NABC Champion and from 65 amateur fights, recorded 55 wins.

 

Morgan added: "I can't wait for my first fight. I live for boxing and my childhood dream was becoming a world champion."

 

Liam Walsh headlines a fantastic card at the York Hall when he challenges Maxwell Awuku for the Vacant Commonwealth Super-Featherweight Championship. The undercard features Curtis Woodhouse, Ryan and Michael Walsh, Steve O'Meara, and the pro-debuts of Bradley Skeete, Ahmet Patterson and Billy Morgan.

 

Tickets are available from Frank Warren Promotions' Box Office on 01992 550 888 on online at