Adam Azim Dominates London
Adam Azim saw 10 rounds for the first time as he dropped and dominated the previously unbeaten Santos Reyes in London.
It was a fight that added to the growing reputation of Azim who, at 20 years-old, is being heralded as British boxing’s next superstar - and, with his fast, fluid and flashy style, you can see exactly why there is such a buzz.
Of course, we are years away from knowing whether the buzz is justified. One thing we do know, though, is that this is a fighter who is wildly entertaining.
And he showed that from the off.
There are many ways to assert your dominance in boxing, and Azim showcased his ability to do them all. His distance control left Reyes’ jab short, his fast footwork had his opponent spinning in circles and his mix of body and head attacks were clearly being felt by the Nicaraguan.
It was in the second round that Azim got his breakthrough. As Reyes came out of his shell for a rare attack, he walked onto a flush right hand. He managed to beat the count and saw out the round by smothering Azim.
For the next few rounds, Reyes stuck behind a tight guard. It wasn’t to be a quick finish as usual for Azim, but in complete control, it gave him a chance to display more of his skillset.
To his credit, Reyes was resolute. However, nothing was to deter Azim. The right hook seemed to be the punch of choice, but the left hook was delivering its own share of damage.
Any gap in defence was being punished, as the later rounds all followed a similar pattern. A 100-89 scorecard offered little surprise as Azim drew to close a good night at the office.
It is hard to walk away from watching Adam Azim and see anything but a future star. Sky and Boxxer are aware of this, and they are making everyone aware of it too.
It is a pressure that must weigh heavy on the shoulders, yet thus far it looks a pressure that motivates rather than scares Azim. This is a kid fuelled with self-belief, a trait which can take even those less talented to the top.
But this is a talent of the highest calibre.
So, whether the next 18 months brings us Britain’s youngest world champion or not, just know that when Adam Azim is in the ring, it’s a good idea not to blink.
However, let’s leave the Ryan Garcia and Gervonta Davis talk for now, yeah.
Oscar Bevis
Official reporter for iFL TV