World amateur champion Frankie Gavin has revealed he will turn professional next week.
The Birmingham lightweight was an overwhelming favourite to win an Olympic gold medal in Beijing but was controversially forced to withdraw at the last minute after failing to make the weight.
The 23-year-old faced fierce criticism on returning home and was keen not to risk similar heartache by staying amateur until the next games in London 2012.
And tonight he confirmed to PA Sport he is set to sign a professional contract with leading promoter Frank Warren next week, and also expects to be trained by Anthony Farnell.
Gavin also confirmed he will fight at light-welterweight and hopes to make his debut early next year.
Asked if his Olympic disappointment contributed to his decision, Gavin told PA Sport: ‘Yes, definitely.’
‘I didn't go to the European Championships (in November) because I had better options, to go professional,’ said Gavin, whose weight problems also prevented him making his return to the ring at the forthcoming event in Liverpool.
‘I haven't signed yet but I'm very close to signing, the deal should be done next week with Frank Warren.
‘He made his interest known quite a while ago. He's the best promoter in Britain by far, if not the world.
‘I'm going to base myself in Manchester with Anthony Farnell.
‘He's got some of my mates up there and the lads I've spoken to gave me a good talk.
‘So as long as the contract gets signed next week, that is what will happen.’
Gavin, a close friend and former amateur team-mate of Amir Khan, admitted he felt delaying until the London Olympics in 2012 was too risky. He will instead aim to win a world title as a professional by the time the Games come around.
