JOE MURRAY will be boxing clever when he challenges for his first professional title.

The 2008 Olympian meets George Gachechiladze for the vacant IBF featherweight youth title at Wigan’s Robin Park Arena on Saturday (18th June).

‘Genius’ Joe has quietly made progress learning his trade on the undercard of Hatton Promotions bills winning all ten professional fights.

The tough Georgian, 24, has won eight of his 14 bouts and last November gave Rhys Roberts a tough night before going down on points.

Hatton Promotions President Ricky Hatton said: “Joe still has some way to go, but he is desperate to become a professional champion and this is the perfect opportunity.

“This is his biggest test as a professional so far and while Gachechiladze may not be world class he is a very capable international fighter who will come to win.

“I confidently expect Joe to pick up what will be the first of many titles under the Hatton Promotions banner.

“It will be a tremendous learning experience and I think he will have to go the distance before getting his raised.

“I will never ever forget the first time I went 12 rounds, against Jon Thaxton. I was cut it was tough, but that win helped prepare me for the tough world title fight that lay ahead.

“The same applies to Joe and he will be a much better fighter for the experience.”

In the main event, ticket seller Martin Murray bids to capture his third professional title when he meets Trowbridge youngster Nick Blackwell for vacant British middleweight title.

The world ranked St Helens fighter will also be risking his WBA inter-continental crown and Commonwealth belt

British lightweight champion Anthony Crolla challenges Ghanaian southpaw Osumanu Akaba for the vacant WBA inter-continental lightweight title.

Prospects on the undercard include Adam Little who faces Junior Thompson and Chris Male who will be tested by Dai Davies.

Tickets for this big night of title action are available £35, £55 (Ringside) and £75 VIP Ringside, www.brandhatton.com /0844 847 2500/ 01925 755222

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