Nevin expected to join pro ranks

Ireland have been hit with a body blow ahead of next month’s AIBA World Elite Boxing Championships with the news that world No 1 ranked bantamweight John Joe Nevin is on the verge of turning professional.

The London 2012 silver medallist yesterday declined to comment on speculation surrounding his future, except to say that it was “likely” he would turn pro.

It is understood that Oscar de la Hoya’s Golden Boy Promotions and Top Rank Promotions are tracking Nevin, while Mike Tyson’s new stable are also believed to be interested.

Nevin is not in Mayo for the national training camp.

Ireland head coach Billy Walsh said: “The rest of the squad are preparing very hard for the World Championships and we’re very pleased with where they are at this point in preparations.”

Brian McKeown, Nevin’s coach at the Cavan BC, said Nevin had attracted huge interest from a number of parties.

“At the moment he is considering a number of very attractive offers. I would expect a decision will be made this weekend.”