Chris Kongo wants to fight for a world title after the announcement he has signed a multi-bout deal with BOXXER to appear on Sky Sports.
Bermondsey’s ‘2Slick’ Kongo, 29, has a professional record of 12-1-0. He lost the first fight of his career last time out, coming out the wrong side of a unanimous decision against Michael McKinson for the WBO global welterweight title fight in Gibraltar last March.
But he hopes this deal is a route to world title contention.
Kongo is now trained by Ben Davison, who has worked with heavyweight champion Tyson Fury and also trains undisputed world super-lightweight champion Josh Taylor.
BOXXER announced Kongo was joining alongside London heavyweight Jeamie TKV.
Promotion company BOXXER signed a four-year deal with Sky Sports in June 2021 and also have Tyson’s cousin, Hughie Fury, in their stable.
Kongo, who is managed by Brixton’s Dillian Whyte, is targeting the top ten in the world rankings.
“I have a new promoter to push me and get me to where I want to be at world level and to challenge for a world title, and of course a new trainer in Ben who will ensure that I get back to the top,” Kongo told Sky Sports.
“I really can’t wait to get back in the ring now. The important thing for me this year is to get back to fighting, keep active and climb back up the world rankings.”
BOXXER chief executive and founder Ben Shalom added: “As one of the first signings to BOXXER in 2022, we welcome Chris Kongo to the team and look forward to working with him this year.
“It’s a big year for him where we’ll work hard to return him to the world-class mix and push on from there. The domestic and world 147lbs division is buzzing with quality champions and fighters.
“Kongo can really get himself back on scene with some good victories this year and into the top ten world rankings.”
Meanwhile, the British Boxing Board of Control (BBBofC) has suspended all boxing in January to as the NHS comes under added pressure during the latest winter wave of Covid-19.
The board said in a statement: “Following advice from the British Boxing Board of Control Medical Panel, Boxing tournaments under the jurisdiction of the BBBofC will be suspended for the month of January.
“A further review by the Medical Panel and Stewards will take place prior to the planned recommencement of Boxing in February.”