Anthony Ogogo, Olympic boxing medallist, turns professional

London 2012 bronze medallist Anthony Ogogo has signed his first professional contract, with his debut set to be in February in the United States.

Middleweight Ogogo, 24, has joined Los Angeles-based promoter Golden Boy Promotions.

"Following the Olympics I've been looking to the future and considering a number of options," said the Lowestoft fighter.

"I feel that the time is now right to turn professional with Golden Boy."

Ogogo has been contemplating whether to turn pro since his podium finish at London 2012.

He produced a memorable Olympic moment when he upset Ukraine's world number one Ievgen Khytrov in a thrilling bout on his way to a bronze medal.

He said in October that he may have to forego his "massive desire" to go to Rio 2016 in favour of turning professional.

Ogogo's exploits in London dramatically raised his profile and attracted the attention of numerous promoters, including former world champion Oscar De La Hoya's Golden Boy organisation and the Barry Hearn-owned Matchroom Sport.

He opted to join Golden Boy, who say the Briton is likely to make his professional debut in Brooklyn on 9 February against an opponent yet to be decided.

"Anthony Ogogo has everything you look for in a boxer," said Golden Boy chief executive Richard Schaefer.

"He can fight, he has style and charisma and he has amazing crossover potential.

"I have no doubt that Anthony has the skills in the ring and the personality outside of it to make him a global boxing star.

"We are proud to have him on our team and this is just the first step in our growing commitment to British boxing."

"It has been very good working with Anthony over the last three years and he did extremely well to win a medal at the 2012 Games," said GB Boxing Performance Director Rob McCracken.

"It is disappointing for us that Anthony has decided his future lies away from the GB Boxing squad but he departs with our best regards and we wish him every success in his future career."

Ogogo's honours list also includes a European silver medal (2012), Commonwealth Games silver medal (2010) and Junior Olympics gold medal (2004).