Photo/BRIAN LOCKHART "Silent" Steve Franjic works out with the speed bag at the Big Tyme gym in Orangeville. After 140 amateur bouts, Franjic is making his pro debut at the Hershey Centre in Mississauga in September. Losing by a decision in the gold medal round of this year’s nationals in February was a turning point in Steve Franjic’s boxing career.

The lost cost his him his place on the national team and Franjic decided to reevaluate his options.

“After this year at the nationals, I got a silver. I lost by one point in the finals. That was the deciding factor,” the 23 year-old light-heavyweight says of his decision to turn pro. “I wasn’t on the national team anymore - and I’d have to wait another year to be on it. So we made the decision together, me and Bryon. (Mackie, Franjic’s trainer) And we’re going with it.”

The hometown Orangeville fighter has been stepping into the ring since he was 14 years old and has an impressive record to back him up.

After 140 amateur bouts, he has a 110-30 record and is a two time Canadian light-heavyweight amateur champion.

He returned with another title last year after winning his division at the Ringside Championships in Kansas City, Missouri.

“It's been a long time coming, so I’m excited about it,” he says of trading in his amateur status.

Franjic is slated to be in the ring on September 25, at the Hershey Centre in Mississauga as one of the fights on a six bout card including a North American Boxing Association title fight.

His opponent as yet, has not been decided.

“It's wiped clean,” he says of his record. “It’s my pro debut so I’ll probably fight another guy who’s making his pro debut or a couple fights in.”

The pro status also introduces a few new elements - no head gear, smaller gloves and an extra three minute round over the three rounds bouts at the amateur senior level.

But Franjic doesn’t sweat the changes.

“With the pro gloves, they’re made for power, they’re made for your fist,” he explains. “Being used to it, I got hit a lot already with head gear on, it shouldn’t be a problem. You have to be careful, move your head a bunch and have your hands up.”

The event at the Hershey Centre is expected to draw a crowd of close to 4,000 boxing fans.

“I’m pretty excited. I’m expecting some nerves obviously.” Fanjic says.

There'll be a big crowd, a big card with a good main event. I’m training hard and expect to do well.

“I’m looking forward to it.”