Away from the glitz and glamour of matchroom (bizarre as he was a sky scholar) former GB stand out Jack Bateson a European bronze medallist Jack Bateson made his pro debut last night. Will be interesting to see how the opportunity to learn his trade away from the public eye helps him. I'm bias as have a lot of time for his Dad who puts a lot into the pro game but hopefully start of a big career
I seen somewhere that this was promoted by his dad? If that's the case that'll be the reason he's not gone the matchroom route, what better than it being a full In house show... The big name promoters will be there still in 12/18mths , why not learn away from them whilst yer dads earning a few quid in the process! Win win !
Yes his Dad promoted the show. There will be more money for Jack by been promoted by his Dad at this point in his career imo. As Guy has mentioned, he has been on the sky scholorship for the past few years but that came to an end around july iirc. This is probably why hes turning pro now. He lost his place to mo ali in the olympics and all in all it makes sense for him to turn over now. A 1st rd stoppage is a real good start.
I was really surprised he didn't sign with Hearn but I doubt matchroom was even offered to him due to their stable being so big atm. With him losing his GB spot and everything maybe Hearn just wasn't interested. Weird to see him turn over as a featherweight considering he boxed at flyweight in the amateurs. Might just be so that they can match him easier early on and it'll be interesting to see if he drops down in the future as I'd like to see him try to avenge his amateur loss to Charlie Edwards. Some good potential fights at feather if he does decide to stay at the weight though.
