CHRISTCHURCH boxer Sam Jones has signed professional terms with Brighton-based Assassin Promotions.

The 24-year-old will compete in the light-welterweight division having been encouraged by former pro-boxer Ty Browne, who owns New Era Gymnasium in Bournemouth.

Assassin is hoping to announce Jones's professional debut in the coming weeks at an event on his home turf in the coming months.

Jones said: "My trainer has a lot of faith and confidence in my ability as a boxer and my focus has always been to turn pro, so I think the time is right to make that move.

Kaz Evans (manager and promoter) and the team at Assassin have really impressed me with their modern and honest approach. I'm confident they can steer my career in the right direction so I'm happy to be under their management."

Evans added: "I'm constantly on the lookout for talented fighters that are ready to start their professional journey.

"I have a great working relationship with Ty Browne and we talked at length about Sam's ability and character to enter the professional stage.

"Sam knows there's a lot of hard work and dedication needed to succeed. We have a plan for him and will work hard as a team to steer him in the right direction to put him on the big stage to win belts."