In an effort to raise the profiles of its young talent, Frank Warren’s Queensberry Promotions has announced an additional six shows for 2021, which will air on both BT Sport and the network’s YouTube channel.
“It is particularly important in the times we are currently living to provide every opportunity we can for those starting out in the sport and the restrictions imposed over the last year has denied many youngsters the regular experience in the ring they require.
We have prioritised and done our utmost to keep as many of our young pros as active as possible, but with limits put on the number of fights at each show and no ticket revenue coming in, it has not been an easy job.
What we have found through showcasing the young talents in TV slots is that fans and viewers have been given the chance to see who is coming through the ranks from an early stage and have the opportunity to get behind their journeys.
Now, these fighters will have their own platform on which to shine and show themselves to the nation. The pressure will be on, the cameras will be rolling and the spotlight applied. It will serve them so well in terms of their career progression and, when the time comes for them to headline on the big stage, they will be well prepared and familiar with the experience.
I believe we have got the best, bumper crop of young fighters in the business on our books and I am so looking forward to this series of fight nights providing a vehicle to propel them forward and shine a big light on their undoubted abilities. I would encourage fight fans to get behind the series and help us with the continued development of potential future world champions.”
Warren and co. also took the opportunity to reveal their three newest signees: Callum Thompson, Macauley Owen, and Junaid Bostan
Amateur standout Thompson was on track to join Team GB in Tokyo before the IOC rejiggered the weight classes and removed the lightweight division from the lineup. He now trains under Joe Gallagher, whom Anthony Crolla referred him to.
“I haven’t boxed for two years, but it is what it is. People have been and are in worst situations. I have got to be grateful for what I have now.
“With Joe and Frank I am in a very good position. I am ready to fight once they give me a date.”
23-year-old Owen intended to make “one last good run” in England’s National Amateur Championship, but turned pro when COVID ground the country’s amateur program to a halt. The 130-pounder had a 75-fight stint in the unpaid ranks and describes himself as “an aggressive counter-puncher” whose coach suggested the ring name “No Mas.”
Junaid, a 19-year-old super welterweight who trains alongside Sunny Edwards, “will make his professional debut in late July or August.” He’s a former acolyte of the great Brendan Ingle, and the press release calls him “a tricky switch hitter who can expect to bamboozle opponents;” he also, according to said release, helped prepare David Avanesyan for his impressive upset of Josh Kelly earlier this year.