Mathew Rennie has become the latest Manx boxer to turn professional after signing with Steve Woods’s VIP Promotions stable.

The 20-year-old won Commonwealth Youth Games light-welterweight silver for the Isle of Man in 2015 and has trained with both the England and Great Britain camps.

Since then the former Ballakermeen student has been working hard to enter the sport’s paid ranks as he explained: ’I moved to Liverpool in April last, as I felt I was becoming stale in the Isle of Man.

’I was at a level where I needed to move to England to progress my boxing career.

’I joined up with Salisbury ABC in the city centre and developed a good relationship with both coaches and boxers.

’This move allowed me to compete more regularly and train at a level that I needed to be on.’

Talking about signing pro with the the same management team that looks after the island’s other pro, Danny Roberts, Rennie added: ’This was an anticipated move which has now become reality and I will ensure I remain professional in and out of the ring.

’I hope to compete at welterweight which is 67kg, but I could potentially compete at super-lightweight in the future. I’m hoping to make my debut before the end of 2018, but as of yet there is no specific date.’ Mathew added: ’I would like to take this opportunity to thank my sponsors Rennie Roofing and Melville Joinery. If any individuals or businesses would like to support my journey as a professional boxer please contact me on Facebook or email: [email protected]’

l Danny Roberts is back in action this Saturday, September 29 at the Eventim Olympia in Liverpool.