Lightweight Giorgio Visioli, one of the UK’s hottest prospects, will headline for the first time as a pro on Wednesday, December 17, when he fights Wigan’s Joe Howarth at Indigo, at The O2, it was announced today.

Earlier this month Visioli, 9-0 (6 KOs), made his US debut in Philadelphia, stopping James Wilkins in impressive fashion, and now, back at home, he gets ready for an eliminator for the English title. His opponent Howarth, 14-1 (4 KOs), is known as ‘Wigan Warrior’ and currently managed by popular British heavyweight Dave Allen.

Visioli, from Aldershot, said: “I want to say a massive thanks to Eddie Hearn and Frank Smith at Matchroom Boxing for giving me the opportunity to headline at such a young age — it shows the belief they have in me. I’m buzzing to be doing it so close to home and I can’t wait to put on a show.

"Respect to Joe Howarth for taking the fight, but he’s just a man in my way. I’m going to beat him, look good doing it, and then move on to winning titles. I don’t believe Joe is on my level — and on fight night, the levels will be shown. He’s a good fighter, but he’s not ready for someone like me.

"I can’t wait to keep showing my class to the boxing world and make my mark on the 135-pound division.”

Howarth, meanwhile, is confident he can upset Visioli and demonstrate why he is the prospect to watch in 2026.

“Finally, this is my chance to show how good I am,” said Howarth.

"It’s good for me to box someone as talented as Visioli. In everyone’s eyes he’s a future world champion, but I believe I’m every bit as good as him. I want to prove I’m a world class prospect.”

In the co-main event, the English cruiserweight title will be on the line when “The Gentleman” John Hedges, 11-0 (3 KOs), fights Ellis Zorro, 18-3 (7 KOs).

Giorgio Visoli vs. Joe Howarth

Giorgio Visioli fights Joe Howarth in London on December 17

Giorgio Visioli treating Joe Howarth like a stepping stone