Matchroom are set to win the race to land amateur standout Leo Atang.

The York heavyweight has emerged as one of the hottest prospects in Britain as a result of his accomplishments in the unpaid ranks.

The teenager, a five-time national champion, won the World Boxing Under-19 world championships last year, stopping his Korean opponent Lee Geon Hui inside the first round of the super-heavyweight final to claim gold.

But instead of staying amateur and attempting to book his place at the Olympics, the 18-year-old has decided to turn professional and The Ring understands he has signed a multi-fight deal with Matchroom.

Atang, a small, agile heavyweight from Legions ABC in York was a former rugby league winger before focusing on boxing and he has already spent a lot of time in pro gyms, sparring a number of British heavyweights such as Dave Allen.

He was a guest at the Matchroom event topped by Jack Catterall’s defeat to Arnold Barboza in Manchester in February and now Eddie Hearn has swooped to land the youngster’s signature.

Speaking to International Boxing News in February, Atang outlined his lofty ambitions in the pro game. “I wouldn’t do it if I didn’t believe I could do it,” he said. “I want to be undisputed. I believe I can do it and I will fight anyone.”