Joe Ward has become part of Dana White’s boxing venture.
The Moate BC graduate becomes the third Irish boxer on new boxing venture Zufa’s books, making Callum Walsh his promotional stablemate.
It’s understood one of Ireland’s greatest amateurs has penned a three-year deal with the Saudi-backed White fronted promotional outfit.
‘Mighty’ will be hoping the move will give him the chance to finally fulfil his potential in the pros.
Since turning over in 2019, the three-time European Championship gold medal winner has struggled for momentum and thus found it difficult to secure big fights.
Indeed, the 32-year-old has become a high risk low reward poster child. A Zuffa move may change his fortunes as they may be able to provide the financial rewards to those previously reluctant to take the risk – and thus the southpaw may be able to get the kind of fights he craves.
Ward expects his first fight under the new deal to take place in either Las Vegas or the UK in April or May, and has three fights a year plan.
“I’m delighted because this is a huge opportunity for me,” the light heavyweight told the Westmeath Independent. “I saw the first Zuffa Boxing show with Callum Walsh, the Irish boxer headlining it, and it’s a huge platform.
“So now it’s time for me to put the head down and really focus on being ready, and being the best version of Joe Ward that I can be.
“Now is the time to prepare and start a new chapter in my professional career. I’m confident that 2026 will be the year I make big waves.”
Ward has seen fights in Galway and further a feild fall through over the last 12 months.
“It’s been very tough,” he said. “I’ve never been out of the ring this long before, so it was frustrating. It was disheartening… but I never gave up hope.
“I kept training, kept my head down and kept saying to myself that my opportunities will come if I trust in the people around me. Thankfully, this opportunity has come to me, and I’m so grateful. It’s huge for me, and it’s great to be involved with Zuffa Boxing.
“Unfortunately (fights) haven’t been happening consistently in my pro career, but I think this is the format that will give me that opportunity.”