Zak Chelli, the British light heavyweight contender, has signed a multi-fight contract with Zuffa Boxing.

Chelli, 28, has been waiting for an opportunity since announcing his arrival as a force in the 175lbs division in May, when he scored one of the upsets of the year by stopping David Morrell in the 10th round.

“I’m grateful for this opportunity. Zuffa is looking for fighters that they believe in, and I’m proud to be in that category,” Chelli said. “I’m thrilled that my fights will once again be shown on Sky Sports [in the UK].

“I want to make the fights that the fans want to see. I’m ready to fight anyone, anytime, anywhere. I’ve proven that throughout my career.”

Chelli, 17-3-1 (9 KOs), turned pro as a super middleweight in 2017, capturing English, British and Commonwealth titles before moving up to light heavyweight last year. He won the English title in his first fight at 175lbs before accepting the bout with the heavily favored Morrell on two weeks’ notice.

Chelli, who works as a supply teacher at a secondary school in Surrey, was not expected to defeat Morrell but hurt the favorite in the ninth round before applying the finishing touches in a dramatic 10th.

According to Zuffa, his debut with the organization will be confirmed “shortly”.