By Elliot Foster
David Oliver Joyce has made the switch to the paid code.
The Irish amateur star had his decision confirmed via social media by the team with which he has signed.
Joyce, who won the European featherweight title as an amateur in 2009 and competed as lightweight at the 2016 Olympics in Rio, has inked terms with MTK Global.
But he now switches his attention to the professional scene and is looking forward to the future.
“I've been wanting to turn professional since returning home from the Olympic Games,” Joyce said, “and I'm delighted to do so with MTK and look forward to working with them.
“I've known [three-time Olympian] Paddy [Barnes] and Mick [Conlan, both of whom have managerial deals with MTK] since I was a kid and discussed turning over when we were at the Games. Seeing those guys do it has given me that little edge to go and do it for myself.
“I've seen the shows recently and they look great, there have been some top boxers in action and I want to show people how good I am on the big stage.
“I had a great amateur career but I believe I'll be even better as a professional, a lot of people have told me I've got a great style for the pros. The amateurs are shorter and I believe the longer rounds will suit me down to the ground.
Joyce, who will compete at lightweight in the pro ranks, has his eye on major titles early on in his career as a prizefighter.
“I don't do small things, I do things big,” he continued, “and in the next year or two I want to be winning world titles, that's my ambition.”
Details on the 30-year-old Mullingar fighter’s professional debut will be revealed in the near future.
And MTK are delighted with their latest capture.
“David is incredibly talented,” they said, “and will have a huge future in boxing.
“His amateur career has been outstanding and to represent your country at the Olympic Games speaks volumes.
“We are excited to see him in action and firmly believe he can achieve the world titles that he has targeted.”
In other news, Paddy Gallagher has signed a new managerial deal.
The Celtic welterweight champion, who recently left trainer John Breen, has inked terms with MTK Global and a new fight date for the 28-year-old is set to be revealed soon.
