Josh Padley Takes Bold Step to Elevate His Career

Josh Padley (15-1, 4 KOs), who recently appeared on his second Riyadh Season bill, has signed a multi-fight promotional deal with Matchroom Boxing. His brave performance against WBC lightweight world champion Shakur Stevenson earned him plenty of praise. Padley has reacted to the deal while his new promoter, Eddie Hearn, has shared his thoughts on the agreement.

Josh Padley Reacts to Career-Defining Promotional Deal

Padley Reacts to Deal

Padley was not on the original Feb. 22 Riyadh Season bill, but the late withdrawal of Floyd Schofield saw the Doncaster native step up and face the WBC champ at four days’ notice.

Even with a full camp, facing Stevenson is a tall order, but taking the fight on four days’ notice is a monumental task. The valiant showing from Padley saw him praised and appear on many podcasts. While he was handsomely rewarded, many wondered what would be next for the likeable Yorkshirman, who has now been able to quit his job as an electrician

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The Jason Cunningham-trained fighter couldn’t hide his excitement regarding the deal: “The dream has finally come true,” said Padley. “I’m looking forward to hanging the work boots up and fully dedicating my life to boxing. I can’t wait for the huge nights ahead with the Matchroom team. The best Josh Padley is yet to come.

“I’m going to give this sport everything that I have now. It’s only a short career you get in boxing. It almost feels like I didn’t lose the fight with Shakur because everyone has got behind me so much. That was four days’ notice. I know I’ll be better next time I get my World Title shot,” said Padley.

Eddie Hearn Talks Josh Padley Deal

“I love great stories and there aren’t many better than the story of Josh Padley,” said Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn.

“Josh rolled the dice and stepped in with one of the greatest talents on the planet at just four days’ notice, and although he fell short to a pound-for-pound superstar on the night, he has completely transformed his life,” added Hearn. 

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Reflecting on the purse Padley earned and the doors this has opened for him, Hearn said: “With the purse he received from his brave showing against Stevenson and the backing of Matchroom, Josh can now put all of his focus on his boxing career – pursuing his dream of earning another World Title shot and winning a World Title.”