YORK boxer George Davey is expected to receive a prominent billing for his professional debut at the First Direct Arena in Leeds on Saturday night.

After a successful spell in the amateurs, the Henry Wharton-trained Davey makes his first appearance in the paid ranks on the undercard to Josh Warrington’s featherweight world title defence against Sofiane Takoucht this weekend.

Davey is believe to be featuring amongst the top fights on the card which features four title fights.

The event will be broadcast live on BT Sport, although it is yet to be confirmed whether or not Davey will feature on the live portion of the broadcast.

Regardless, manager and trainer Wharton thinks it is a great occasion for his young prospect to showcase his skills.

“George is going to be higher up the bill than we expected,” said Wharton. “He will be a little bit anxious on Saturday night because this is unknown territory for him.

“There’s going to be about 15,000 people there on Saturday night, which George isn’t used to.

“But, right now, he’s flying on a crest of a wave. We’re going from small hall shows in the amateurs to fighting on one of the biggest shows in the world.

“He’s fighting on the undercard to world title fight at a major arena.

“We’re not sure if he’s going to be televised, but it could be. It’s massive for George and we’re hoping that it can be a launchpad to bigger things.”

Davey will face Lithuanian Zygimantas Butkevicius in a four-round contest and the bout is likely to take place at around 154lbs.