DORSET’S Iain Weaver is ready to turn his back on the amateur ranks after his Olympic dream was left in tatters.

The Ferndown lightweight was on Thursday surprisingly overlooked by GB Boxing for the final qualifier for London 2012.

Weaver, who recently franked his credentials by winning silver at the prestigious Strandja Cup, was hoping to stake his claim for the Games in Turkey next month.

However, although he was thought to be battling Martin Ward in the 60k event, Liverpool’s Sam Maxwell was selected ahead of the pair.

Weaver, 22, discovered his fate following a brief meeting with GB Boxing performance director Rob McCracken on Wednesday.

“I wasn’t happy with the selection,” Weaver told the Echo. “I think it was a surprise to everyone that he picked Maxwell over Ward and me.

“We were called into a meeting one by one and I knew Martin Ward hadn’t been picked because he went in before me.

“The reason I was given was that they didn’t think I was big enough for the 60k spot. Maxwell got the nod because he is bigger than me.

“I don’t agree and think I could go to any tournament at 60kg and medal. Although I was gutted, I was more in shock than anything else.

“Maxwell has come from nowhere and got the nod over two experienced lads who have been doing it for years.

“I was told that if anything were to happen to him on the injury front, I would be first reserve. But I’m not too interested in that if I’m honest. My Olympic dream is over and I just want to move on and forget about 2012.”

Discussing the selection process, McCracken said: “There were some very tough calls to make in reaching a final decision at a couple of weights but, in the end, we have settled on those boxers whom we feel have the best chance of meeting the qualifying standard in what will be a very tough assignment.”

And expanding on the decision to choose Maxwell, McCracken said he had “performed tremendously in training and competition where he has acclimatised very easily to the demands of international boxing”.

Weaver, who plans to discuss his future with his family over the next few weeks, added: “I honestly think my amateur career is over and I will be turning professional.

“I have enjoyed my four years on the GB squad. I have travelled the world, won some good medals and met some good lads. Another journey is going to start now and I am looking forward to the professional ranks.”