Vijender Singh formally snapped all ties with Indian boxing by turning professional at a media event in London on Monday.
Vijender, who became the first Indian boxer to win an Olympic medal with his bronze in 2008, signed a multi-year promotional agreement that will ensure him a minimum of six fights in the first year of turning pro.
“I’m excited to turn pro and looking forward to the new chapter of my life. I want to train hard and perform at the global level,” said Vijender. “My immediate goal will be to work hard and make a good boxing record in the next year or so.”
The decision means Vijender will not participate in the 2016 Rio Olympics.
Vijender had also been shortlisted by the sports ministry’s TOP Scheme for funding to prepare for the Olympics. Vikas Krishen, who participates in the same weight category as Vijender, is likely to replace him.
Promoter Frank Warren said: “I’m very excited to have brought such a talented and determined individual over to the UK and can’t wait to see what Vijender is capable of doing in the professional ranks. There is no doubt that he has what it takes to be a very successful professional boxer,” he said.
Besides the Olympic bronze, Vijender won gold at the 2010 Asian Games, silver at the 2006 and 2014 CWG and bronze at the 2009 World Championships, besides being the world No.1 middleweight boxer in 2009. The 29-year-old Vijender will be based in Manchester under trainer Lee Beard.
