Shabaz Masoud Inspires Young Boxers, Discusses Career and Future Goals

“I’m back here now supporting all the local kids because I was one of them kids.” These remarks were made by boxer Shabaz Masoud, who attended a significant fight night at the Seah Stadium, hosted by the Wellington Boxing Academy, with the aim of motivating the next generation of boxers. Masoud, originally from Stoke-on-Trent, secured the International Boxing Organization (IBO) bantamweight title by defeating Liam Davies. This all-Shropshire bout, decided by a split decision in Birmingham, allowed the 28-year-old to maintain an undefeated record across 14 professional fights. Masoud commented on the sport’s transformative potential, stating, “Boxing is one of them sports where you can make it – from nothing you can become something.” He added that it imparts crucial life skills: “It helps you with everything in life – discipline, respect, being around different minorities, and it teaches you a lot of life skills as well.” Regarding his aspirations, he declared, “I’ve always said I don’t want to just be a world champion, I want to be a multi-weight world champion. I’m not satisfied yet, I’m still hungry.” Masoud also attributed his boxing success to his religion, Islam. He explained that praying five times daily instilled discipline and emphasized the significance of being a virtuous individual. He expressed his desire for authenticity, stating, “I don’t want filters with my personality, I want everyone to know me for what I am.” Masoud added, “I’m glad people are realising the kind of person I am, because that’s a big thing.” Masoud maintains a strong connection to his origins in Telford, specifically the Wellington Boxing Academy, where he grew up. He clarified his background, saying, “I’m from Stoke-on-Trent, but all my family are from Telford, so coming down here this has become my family as well.” Masoud also expressed a desire to have a fight take place in Stoke-on-Trent. Masoud commented on his approach to fight selection, stating, “I’ve never really called out fighters, or called for fights, I’ve always just let the team decide and I’ve just cracked on. I’ve never said no.” While he achieved a national title as an amateur, Masoud acknowledged that his professional career has faced interruptions due to injuries and periods of inactivity. However, he is now addressing these challenges, having joined Eddie Hearn’s Essex-based Matchroom team, where Ben Davison, a former cornerman for Anthony Joshua and coach for Tyson Fury, provides his training. For more updates, follow BBC Shropshire on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X, and Instagram. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content of external websites. Information regarding their external linking policy is available.