Amateur middleweight standout Jamar Pemberton is planning to turn pro and signed on with Las Vegas based management firm Victory Sports & Entertainment.
Fighting out of St. Louis, Pemberton has long been a fixture in the USA boxing scene – having been ranked top 5 since 2015. Most recently, he achieved a silver medal at the 2021 USA Boxing Nationals.
Pemberton fell just short in the final against rival Donte Layne: who Pemberton had defeated to win a 2019 Junior Olympic National title 2 years prior. The 6’3″ southpaw’s pro career will be guided by Victory Sports CEO Mike Leanardi, and Leanardi-understudy Tanner Gill.
“Jamar’s improved a lot since I’ve been following him, and having just turned 19, I’m confident he’ll continue to develop into a top pro,” said Leanardi.
“He’s athletic and has outstanding power. I think he’ll become a fan favorite.”
Leanardi, a long time advisor to Badou Jack, has a stable that includes names like Shane Mosley Jr., Jeremiah Milton, Quatavious Cash and several other fighters.
“I’ve been dreaming of this since I was 10 years old. I’ve had a great amateur career, and I really enjoyed my time competing in USA Boxing – but it’s time for the next phase of my boxing career,” said Pemberton.
“I’m ready to fight as a professional and show the world what I’m capable of,” he continued.
Tanner Gill had previously worked with Kirk Douglas Sr. – Pemberton’s trainer since the age of seven.
“Naturally Jamar ended up on my radar… After some really impressive performance in 2021, we approached Jamar about his professional aspirations. It felt like a great fit. I believe he can be next in line on an already long list of great fighters from St. Louis,” added Gill.
With Pemberton just announcing his arrival to the world of professional boxing, there is currently no promotional agreements in place. The newest fighter on the VSE roster is eager to make his debut – and put himself and St. Louis on the map.