Decorated amateur John Hedges has signed a multi-fight promotional deal with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom organisation. Hedges will campaign at super-middleweight after originally making the decision to turn professional with S-JAM Boxing earlier this year.
The 6’5” southpaw won four national and seven international titles during an impressive spell as an amateur, where he won 40 out of 44 contests competing across Europe.
Known as ‘Gentleman John’, the gifted 18-year-old fights out of the Hoddesdon Boxing Academy and joins a Matchroom stable that already includes two undefeated 168lbs world champions in Callum Smith (WBA Super) and Billy Joe Saunders (WBO).
Based in Takeley, Essex, Hedges believes his flashy style will suit the pro game to a tee.
“I’m delighted to be teaming up with Matchroom Boxing,” said Hedges. “It’s a massive move for me and I can’t wait to get started. I’m a long, 6’5” southpaw and I’m everyone’s worst nightmare. With my size and ability, I honestly believe that I’ll go all the way and become a young world champion, if not the youngest.
“I’ve got the best manager and coach behind me, and now I’ve got the best promoter behind me in Eddie Hearn. The opportunities are going to be endless for me, this is what dreams are made of. I’m only young but I’ve been around the block and I’m ready to take over.
“I’m flashy, entertaining and I always put on a show. Joining Matchroom and looking up to the likes of Callum Smith and Billy Joe is going to take my fighting to another level. As soon as that opportunity comes, we’ll push for any titles there is. We’re not avoiding anyone; we believe that we’re as good as the best right now. It’s about taking my chance.”
“I’m excited to add highly-rated prospect John Hedges to our ranks,” added Eddie Hearn. “John has proven his credentials in the amateurs, winning countless titles at both national and international level. His size and ability will make him a problem for anyone at 168lbs and I look forward to guiding his development once he makes his professional debut later this year.
“If John needs any inspiration he need look no further than his new stablemates Callum Smith and Billy Joe Saunders who both hold world titles at his weight. He possesses bags of confidence, which is vital in this sport and he now has the perfect platform on Sky Sports and DAZN to showcase his skills.”
Sam Jones of S-JAM Boxing said: “I am absolutely delighted to link up with Eddie Hearn and Matchroom Boxing. I believe they have the perfect platform for John with Sky Sports and DAZN, and I genuinely believe he can become a superstar in boxing.”