Frank Warren signs first female boxer since Nicola Adams

Frank Warren and Queensberry are delighted to announce the signing of professional featherweight and former Team GB graduate Raven Chapman.

Currently 2-0 (1 KO), Raven, known as ’The Omen’, joined the professional ranks in September 2021 following a productive amateur career that yielded two National titles, as well as recognition by both Team England and GB Boxing.

Due to the delay following the outbreak of Covid-19, the 28-year-old declined the opportunity to participate in the Olympics and opted to set the ball rolling on a new venture in the paid ranks under the guidance of manager Stefy Bull.

Raven insists she is a far more formidable proposition in a professional ring.

"My style was never the amateur GB style, and as much as I tried to adapt it, it just wasn’t natural for me," explained the featherweight. "Most of my success was when I was boxing how I box, which funnily enough is much more like the pro style. That is why I think it has been quite a good transition for me because I feel more natural, I like to plant my feet and throw big shots, but I am busy and aggressive as well, and I like to move my head a lot too.

"I have loved the pro game so far, it felt like it was where I was meant to be. I’ve fought on a couple of big platforms and I know it is what I want," added Raven, who believes BT Sport and picking up the baton from the retired Nicola Adams is the place to be.

"Going with Frank and BT was such a big pull for me because I didn’t want to be following in someone’s footsteps. Like Terri (Harper) and being in her shadow, which could have happened because she is my team mate. But I want to pave my own way, do my own thing and bring more women’s boxing to Queensberry and BT.

"More people are watching women’s boxing now and actually realise that we can box, we can fight, it is entertaining and people want to see it. I am looking forward to showing the fans that we are good to watch and hopefully we can bring in some new fans. We are here to stay, we want to make a statement, I definitely want to make a statement. I want to rule the featherweights and I think that with Queensberry I have a very good platform and great opportunities to get there."

Hall of Fame promoter Frank Warren added: "I am thrilled to add Raven to the Queensberry ranks and add an exciting dimension to our shows on BT Sport that has been missing since Nicola’s retirement as a current world champion.

"Raven is a top prospect who will make rapid strides in the sport and her moves will be deservedly captured by our broadcast partners BT Sport. Women’s boxing is ever-increasing in terms of depth of quality and this was always key to long-term success.

"I am looking forward to the journey with Raven and I am confident she will reach the very top."