British heavyweight Delicious Orie is set to make his professional boxing debut this Saturday, marking a significant transition from his amateur career. Orie, who faced an early exit at the Paris Olympics, is determined to carve out a successful path in the professional ranks, despite the challenges that come with it.

Transitioning to Professional Boxing Orie, 27, acknowledges the stark differences between amateur and professional boxing. "It's a cut-throat business. Not like in the amateurs where you get protected from all the outside noise," he shared during a visit to the BBC in Salford. He has been warned about the "sharks" in the industry but remains focused on his goals. Orie has assembled a trusted team and signed with Frank Warren's Queensberry Promotions, ensuring a steady progression in his career.

A Journey of Resilience Orie's journey to professional boxing is a testament to his resilience. Moving from Russia to England at the age of seven without speaking a word of English, he found inspiration in Anthony Joshua and took up boxing. Despite feeling "inferior" at times, Orie has always pushed himself to reach the next level. His early exit from the Olympics still lingers, but he remains philosophical about it. "It's life and life sometimes doesn't give you what you want - and that's OK," he said.

Making a Difference Beyond Boxing Orie is not just focused on his boxing career; he is also an ambassador for BoxWise, a charity that delivers non-contact boxing programmes to disadvantaged young people in the UK. "A boxing gym could be the difference from potentially getting life in prison to having a disciplined lifestyle," he emphasized. Orie is passionate about using boxing as a vehicle for change, aiming to inspire and support the next generation.

Looking Ahead Under the guidance of his coach Grant Smith, Orie is preparing for the longer bouts typical in professional boxing. He acknowledges the depth of talent in the heavyweight division, particularly in Britain, but is confident in his abilities. Orie aims to emulate his hero Joshua and win a world title, driven by his astuteness, dedication, and desire to prove doubters wrong.

As Orie steps into the professional ring, his journey is one to watch. With his determination and passion for making a difference, he is poised to leave a lasting impact on the sport of boxing.