JOSH Padley looks to get back to winning ways after suffering a ninth-round stoppage defeat to WBC world lightweight champion Shakur Stevenson.
The 29-year-old produced a gallant performance, climbing off the canvas three times, after taking the fight on just a few days’ notice back in February.
Shortly after his titanic effort, ‘Paddy’ inked a promotional deal with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing, allowing him to quit his day job as an electrician.
And so, despite losing to the three-division titlist, the former sparky has not only elevated his profile but also reaped the financial rewards of his tremendous bravery.
For his next assignment, it was announced earlier today that Padley, 15-1 (4 KOs), will lock horns with Serbia’s Marko Cvetanovic on April 19.
His keep-busy fight will take place at the Park Community Arena in Sheffield, England, featuring on the undercard of Dalton Smith vs Mathieu Germain.
While remaining unbeaten through 13 professional bouts, Cvetanovic is yet to face a notable operator or, more concerning still, enter a fight that is scheduled for more than six rounds.
Padley will also introduce the 29-year-old to his first outing on away soil, setting himself up nicely for his first victory since outpointing Mark Chamberlain last year.
Beyond his Matchroom debut, though, the proud Yorkshireman is expected to secure a series of more appealing matchups.
Former world super-featherweight champion Joe Cordina, for instance, has already expressed his interest in taking on Padley who, after coming up against one of the most elite pound-for-pound fighters on the planet, is certainly not one to shy away from a challenge.
