Olympic hero Nevin shelves plans to turn pro

London 2012 Olympic silver medallist John Joe Nevin has shelved plans to turn professional.

Nevin last month announced his plans to turn pro on live television however it is believed the Irish elite champion had not inked any deal with Amir Khan’s Super Fight Promotions.

Yesterday he and Joe Ward, the current European champion, were named on the British Lionhearts squad for the upcoming World Series of Boxing (WSB) Team Championships season. The Irish duo, who are currently ranked in the top-10 in the world, were named on the panel at yesterday’s WSB launch in London.

Khan last night expressed disappointment that John Joe Nevin has decided to remain amateur, but says he respects his decision.

Khan said: “It’s disappointing that John Joe will be staying amateur as I firmly believe he has the potential to make big waves in the professional scene. Nevertheless, I respect his decision to represent the British Lionhearts in the World Series of Boxing and do not rule out the possibility of working with him in the future.”

Meanwhile Barry McGuigan, who hosted the launch of the British Lionhearts yesterday, described the Irish duo as “dynamite”.

McGuigan said: “Joe Ward will be a sensation in the World Series of Boxing as he’s an awesome talent. He’ll box at 85kg and that will suit him down to the ground as he’s moving toward heavyweight all the time.

“I believe Joe could win it out, he’s that good. John is also an exceptional talent as we saw from his performances at the Olympic Games. They are dynamite additions to any team.”

Moate light-heavyweight Ward, 19, will have his Irish coach Eddie Bolger working with him in the WSB.

“I’m looking forward to the extra rounds as there are five rounds in the World Series. It will be a great challenge for me and I can’t wait to get started,” he said.

The Lionhearts will open their campaign away to the USA Knockouts next week. Ireland’s 2012 Olympic bronze medallist Michael Conlan and Sean Turner are with the USA. The WSB, which is ran by the International Boxing Association, allows amateur boxers to fight under pro rules but retain Olympic eligibility. WSB boxers are paid salaries and bonus’ for wins.