Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom saves South London boxing club

Britain’s oldest amateur boxing club will officially reopen after a rescue package from Matchroom has saved it from permanent closure.

With its doors closed since July, due to health and safety concerns, Camberwell’s famous Lynn AC will be handed back to the local community later this month courtesy of a five-figure donation by The Matchroom Charitable Foundation.

Renovation is already underway to deliver extensive improvements – including a complete refurbishment, featuring brand new screed flooring – which will mean hundreds of aspiring amateur fighters can once again train and use the gym’s facilities.

Lynn AC was formed in 1892 and was where reigning IBF world super-bantamweight champion Ellie Scotney was introduced to the sport.

Danny Williams, Richard Riakporhe, Chris Kongo, Daniel Dubois, Henry Akinwande and Wayne Alexander have also learned their trade at the club.

Matchroom Sport chairman Eddie Hearn visited Lynn ACC today.

“The history here is incredible and we are delighted to provide much-needed financial support to save the club and offer opportunities to hundreds of amateur hopefuls who enter this gym,”

“Clubs like Lynn AC are the heart and soul of their local communities. Without grassroots, the sport doesn’t survive – and that is why we are proud, with the help of The Matchroom Charitable Foundation, to offer vital funds to ensure the stars of tomorrow have the best possible start in boxing.

“Our investment into grassroots will extend across the UK and beyond with many more exciting projects in the pipeline.”

Scotney took time out from her preparations ahead of her first title defence on September 30 at the OVO Arena Wembley against Laura Soledad Griffa to return to her first club.

Scotney said: “I first stepped through the doors here when I was nine years old. The club means so much to me and to so many people.”

The grand re-opening for Lynn AC is set for September 28.

DAZN’s lead boxing commentator Mike Costello began his journey into the sport with Lynn AC, where he once served as head coach, and revealed his delight at seeing Matchroom stepping in to save the club.

Costello said: “The club was like another family to me and had a huge impact on my life. I spent the best part of 20 years there as a boxer and coach, making friendships that have lasted to this day.”

Once essential works are completed, the grand re-opening for Lynn AC is set for September 28. For further details, please contact the Matchroom PR & Communications team.