A FLEDGLING Keighley fighter under the tutelage of boxing legend Ricky Hatton hopes to move a step closer to turning professional next month.

Ibrahim 'Ibby' Nadim will go before the central area council of the British Boxing Board of Control on Sunday, September 15.

If he passes the interview, Nadim will then go for his medicals. It is hoped he will make his professional debut in the ring before the end of the year.

Nadim, 20, is being trained by 'Hitman' Hatton, a multiple light-welterweight and welterweight division champion during his own career, as he looks to emulate his mentor in the professional game after a successful spell as an amateur.

Nadim is working with Hatton on weekdays at his Hatton's Health & Fitness Club in Hyde, Greater Manchester.

Nadim, who currently weighs around 10 stone, will compete at either the super bantamweight or featherweight division.

Hatton says he has been impressed with his initial padding sessions in the ring with Ibby, adding he could have an exciting professional career ahead of him.

Speaking earlier this month on Nadim, 'Hitman' said: "I don't want to put any pressure on such a young man's shoulders. It is very very early days.

"He punches very well. He fights up close."

Nadim's tie-up with Hatton continues a great year for the Keighley fighter.

In June he was crowned best of British to become the Three Nations champion.

He beat Scotland's Stephen Donald on a unanimous decision in the 56kg final at the event held in Edinburgh.

He had further success in the ring in April when he won the 52-56kg category final at the England Boxing Amateur Championship Finals Day.

He showed his dedication and commitment to the sport by travelling from his home in Keighley to train with his former coach Mick Jelley at his club in Bury ABC in Greater Manchester, where he trained for nine years.