By Terence Dooley 

Newcastle’s Lawrence Osueke has signed up with North East-based promoter Steve Wraith in a bid to ignite his professional career. 

The 30-year-old former England International has racked up four wins thus far (no KOs) and has moved back home after living in Manchester in order to join the region’s boxing boom.

Wraith has told the Evening Chronicle that he has also added Darlington’s John Green to his growing stable as well as joining forces with local promoter Phil Jeffries to push the scene forward. 

He said: “I am delighted to add both lads to my growing stable.  Both fighters want to keep busy and with me linking up full time with Phil Jeffries that is not going to be an issue.”

“Phil gave me a chance in boxing and I took it with both hands,” added Wraith.  “I had to find my feet on my own and I have done that but the time has come for the good of boxing in the North East for us to join forces and work together full time.”

Lewis Ritson is leading the North East’s recent charge, with Josh Kelly also making big strides, and Eddie Hearn of Matchroom’s desire to bring a spotlight to the region is great news for Wraith. 

“It was great to work with Eddie Hearn and Matchroom Boxing again (on their June 16 bill in Newcastle),” he said.

“Eddie was delighted with how far we have all come up here in a short space of time.  It is my job and Phil's to build on this success and start the conveyor belt finding more exciting new talent to nurture and grow.”

Please send news and views to @Terryboxing.