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Fast-moving British heavyweight prospect Joe Joyce, who won silver at the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, will make his U.S. pro boxing debut on September 30 against Iago Kiladze in an eight-round fight that will be featured on the Ortiz-Molina card on FS1.
Joyce, 32, has run up a 5-0 (5 KO) record as a pro thus far, and is now training in California with Abel Sanchez. He’s also closely associated with promoter David Haye.
“I have a plan and a goal to get where I want to be to win a world title. I’ve settled in at Big Bear and it’s like my second home. I’m just looking forward to making my American debut and showing the U.S. fans my style and putting on a really good show and a strong performance. Stay tuned. Watch my progression in the U.S., because I’m going to be heavyweight champion of the world.”
Joyce is getting a late start on his pro career given his age, but that could also mean he’s fresher for longer after not taking years of punishment in the pro ranks. He’s a legitimate prospect with personality and someone to keep an eye on, and it’ll be good to see him get into the mix in the States.