'Strictly Come Dancing' professionals are reportedly desperate to be paired up with Nicola Adams.

Nicola Adams

Nicola Adams

The retired boxer - who won Olympic gold in 2012 and 2016 before retiring undefeated last year - will be one half of the BBC Latin and ballroom show's first ever same-sex pairing, and it's said the female pros are all keen to step onto the dancefloor with her for the upcoming series.

A source told The Sun newspaper: "The female pros know that forming Strictly's first same-sex partnership will thrust them into the spotlight like never before.

"But they're also thrilled by the fact Nicola is a sportswoman, because she has the discipline and fitness to deliver a sensational performance.

"She will also have the strength to do lifts during routines, not to mention the fact that she has a sensational physique which will make those routines that little bit sexier."

While Katya Jones is said to be the frontrunner, her co-stars Oti Mabuse, Janette Manrara and Karen Hauer are all reportedly keen.

The insider added: "The fact the pros are jostling to be with Nicola is a fantastic sign of progress.

"When 'Strictly' started in less accepting times 16 years ago, they may have had to give it more careful consideration."

Nicola - who was the first openly gay person to win Olympic gold when she triumphed at London 2012 - recently admitted being in a same-sex duo was non-negotiable.

She explained: "They wanted to know if I wanted to be on the show and I said, 'Yeah, I'll do it, but I want to dance with another female'.

"It's really important. It's a big step for the show as well. It's nice to see we're able to move on. I can't wait to get some dancing done."

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