‘I’m excited to represent my country in the pro ranks’ – Joe Ward confirms pro move

Joe Ward says he wants to represent Ireland on the world stage as a pro and confirmed he is leaving the Irish amateur set up.

Kevin Byrne of the Sun newspaper revealed the Irish amateur captain would be ditching his arm band and vest to it alone in the paid ranks earlier this week.

There were suggestions the IABA and the High Performance Team would try and persuade the Olympic medal hope to stay on for Tokyo 2020, but Ward has since come out to confirm his pro status.

There were faint rumours the two-time world amateur silver medalist would team up Matthew Macklin and work under the guidance of the former world title challenger. 

However he today confirmed he has signed a management deal with Times Square Boxing – and the company run by Joe Winters and Adam Glenn are now trying to secure him the best promotional deal possible. 

“I’m excited to begin my professional journey under the guidance of Times Square Boxing,” said Ward. “I loved fighting for Ireland and had a very rewarding amateur career. I was happy that I could bring success and medals to my country, and that in the past few years I could help mentor some of my younger teammates.

“My decision to turn professional was not easy. I will miss my team, however, I felt the time was right for me and my family. I’m excited to represent my country in the professional ranks and bring a world championship home to Ireland. I believe it is important to surround yourself with the right people and I found great partners in Joe Winters and Adam Glenn at Times Square Boxing, who understand the sport and business of boxing.

“I immediately connected with Joe Winters and the fact that Joe’s mom was from Ireland and he still has a lot of family in Ireland. I’m confident Times Square Boxing will help me achieve my professional goals to become a world champion.”