Former World Champion Joins Queensberry, Moves to Heavyweight

Lawrence Okolie (20-1, 15 KOs) was last seen in the ring destroying Lukasz Rozanski by first-round TKO at the Podpromie Arena in Rzeszow, Poland. The Brit knocked his opponent down three times on his way to an emphatic victory, winning the WBC bridgerweight title. That fight was the main event of a Boxxer card after Okolie had left Matchroom Boxing. Queensberry Promotions have now revealed via press release that “The Sauce” has signed a promotional agreement with them.

Lawrence Okolie Signs with Queensberry, Steps Up to Heavyweight

Okolie Talks Queensberry Deal

Okolie teams up with Queensberry as he readies himself to embark on a new journey at heavyweight following his decision to relinquish his bridgerweight belt. Okolie enjoyed a hugely successful spell at cruiserweight which saw him become the WBO champion, before losing to current champion Chris Billam-Smith.

The Hackney native has been criticised in the past for the lack of action in his fights but did go through a promising spell when he defeated Yves Ngabu, Nikodem Jezewski and Krzysztof Glowacki. His career seemed to be standing still before his brief stint at bridgerweight, and Okolie is seemingly ready to make a splash at heavyweight under the guidance of Queensberry and the Warrens.

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“There is only one place,” insisted Okolie on his new promotional home. He continued: “If you are a heavyweight in Britain or the world, it is the Warrens. They’ve got the best up-and-coming heavyweights, the best current heavyweights and the best who are on their way out.”

Okolie added: “So it is the place to be, for me.”

Weight Struggles

Reflecting on his past weight struggles, the London native said: “It has gone through different phases in my career and I needed to find a home that would cater for this next period, right to the end of my career, which is the heavyweight dream of being a three-weight world champion.”

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Okolie continued: “I am a natural for the weight, right from being on the GB team. I have been struggling with making weight but, when you have success, you keep on pushing it. I even had to come down to make bridgerweight, so I knew it was time to go up.”

Frank Warren Reacts

“I am thrilled to add Lawrence to our burgeoning heavyweight ranks here at Queensberry and I fully expect him to increase our successes in the marquee division,” said Frank Warren.

Talking about being comfortable at the weight and having the ability to thrive as a heavyweight, Warren continued: “Lawrence possesses all the attributes to make a big impact at heavyweight and he will relish being released of the burden of cutting weight, allowing his natural talent and power to shine through.”

He added: “There are so many exciting fights and options out there for Lawrence and I am so looking forward to getting him started again.”