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.