Dan Azeez has been described as a ‘pioneer’ for Essex University Amateur Boxing Club ahead of his professional debut tomorrow night.

The talented light heavyweight makes the step up from amateur status when he takes to the ring as part of MTK London’s Pride and Glory event, at the Brentwood Centre.

Azeez, a founder member at Essex University ABC, has won numerous titles both domestically and internationally at amateur level.

And ahead of his first-ever professional bout, Essex University ABC coach Gordon Charlesworth believes he is now ready to make the step up.

Charlesworth said: “Dan’s progress has been that of hard work, patience, disappointment and much success.

“Being a founder member of the Essex University Boxing Club has meant that Azeez has been a pioneer along with former Essex Uni student and now professional welterweight Adrian Martin, who has put together seven out of seven.

“Not only has Dan won many titles and trophies, he has also trialled for England Boxing and the national Nigerian team and has fought many boxers in the top ten in the UK, with fine results.

“He has been a very good club member, helping other trainees and gained his level one coaching award along the way.”

Azeez, who has now signed with MTK, is one of 16 boxers in action at the Brentwood Centre tomorrow night, in a very busy night of action.

Witham’s super welterweight Kaan Hawes is also competing, along with the likes of Olympic bronze medalist and British and Commonwealth champion David Price, current Irish champion Pauly Upton and former English champion and British and European title challenger, Ashley Sexton.

Doors open at 4.30pm, with boxing starting shortly after.

Meanwhile, Essex University’s Lewis Richardson is back in action this Sunday in the National Amateur Boxing Championship semi-finals, in Bristol.