Boxxer promoter Ben Shalom is emphasizing the importance of nurturing emerging talent rather than relying on marquee signings to elevate his boxing stable.
As the exclusive promoter for Sky Sports, Shalom has made a name for himself by developing fighters from the ground up, signing several standout Olympians such as Lauren Price, Frazer Clarke, and Ben Whittaker. He plans to continue this strategy, focusing on developing talent from debut, rather than seeking established stars to add to his roster.
“We’ve just signed Scottish middleweight prospect Sam Hickey, and I’m very excited about what he can bring,” Shalom said. “We’re looking to sign fighters with the right mentality, fanbase, and ambition to reach the top. Our most successful relationships have been with fighters like Adam Azim, Callum Simpson, Ben Whittaker, and Caroline Dubois. By starting early with them, we’re able to build their careers together, and that’s the approach we want to continue. We’re not focusing on marquee signings, but on finding fighters whom we can develop into stars.”
Boxxer is set to showcase two exciting events in the coming months: Natasha Jonas will headline a card in Liverpool later this month, while Callum Simpson will be in action in Sheffield in January. Junior welterweight Adam Azim will also return to the ring in London in February.
One notable fighter who has been relatively quiet recently is Paris Olympic super heavyweight Delicious Orie. After falling short of a medal in Paris, WWE approached Orie, sparking speculation about a potential career in professional wrestling. Shalom, however, remains open to the possibility of Orie turning professional in boxing, should he decide to pursue that path.
“He’s a heavyweight with great potential,” Shalom said. “I know he was considering WWE, but he’s taking his time to explore his options. Let’s see what happens in the next few weeks.”
