NEWPORT'S Sean McGoldrick has signed a promotional deal with Matchroom Boxing after turning professional.

He will make his debut on the undercard of the world lightweight unification clash between Anthony Crolla and Jorge Linares at the Manchester Arena on March 25.

The Welsh 2010 Commonwealth Games gold medallist and 2014 bronze medal man will kick off life in the paid ranks at bantamweight, where he picked up his medals in Delhi and Glasgow.

The 24-year-old, trained by Tony Borg at St Joseph's Boxing Club, can’t wait to lace up his gloves.

“I am so excited to be turning pro,” said McGoldrick.

“When any boxer starts out, they want to be champion of the world, but when you get into the amateur set up you realise there is more to it than just having a couple of fights and then turning pro.

“I set myself new goals in the amateurs, to win medals and to progress, and now I've turned pro, I go back to that goal of wanting to become a world champion and the best I can be.

“I'm raring to go now. I just can't wait to be a part of it on the cards of the likes of Anthony Joshua and Kell Brook, fighters that I really look up to and it'll be an honour to fight on their bills and hopefully I can do myself justice and perform on the big stage.”

“I’m delighted to welcome Sean to the team,” said promoter Eddie Hearn. “Sean had a stellar amateur career with Team GB and I am excited to see him move quickly through the pro ranks and challenge for major honours.”

McGoldrick’s debut is part of a huge night of action in Manchester, covered live by Sky Sports, topped by Crolla’s revenge mission against Linares.

For tickets, ring 07765 852686.