Adam Azim is undoubtedly one of the most gifted fighters on these shores, his speed a thing of beauty as he ruthlessly dismantles lesser opponents.
At 24 years old, he surely has the physical attributes and mindset to reach the pinnacle of his sport, especially with renowned trainer Shane McGuigan in his corner.
Crucially, though, Azim remains acutely aware that talent can only take a fighter so far.
More important is the level of commitment to their craft or, in other words, the way in which one chooses to apply themselves outside of the gym.
It came as an unfortunate series of events when, ahead of his last scheduled outing, super-lightweight opponent Gustavo Lemos pulled out with an injury.
Azim was then set to face Nahir Albright on the same date, January 31, only for a hand injury to rule him out of action.
In order to prevent future injuries, however, the unbeaten contender has placed even greater emphasis on a self-care routine which, he tells Boxing News and other outlets, was somewhat neglected ahead of his last fight.
“One thing I’m very [particular] about is my health. Boxers get injured left right and centre before a fight, but it’s the stuff they do outside of camp [that makes a difference].
“They can go out, eat so much crap and do something stupid. [But], with me, I like to sort my body out before I go into camp. I do a lot of manipulation to my body – ice baths, cryos, hot and cold therapy – and I work on myself even after the fight.”
While giving the impression of a consummate professional, Azim admits that, prior to his 12th-round finish over Kurt Scoby last November, he may have been guilty of indulging in a few too many treats.
As a result, he has since decided to live more like a monk than, say, a typical 24-year-old.
“Before that fight against Kurt Scoby, I was very heavy, and the reason I was heavy is because I ate a lot of deserts. But afterwards, I thought of all the top-level fighters that do a lot of recovery and keep their weight in place. I need to do that [as well].”
Believing he has cracked the code for top-level success, Azim must remain in the win column when he faces Steve Claggett at London’s Wembley Arena this Saturday, headlining his first Boxxer card on the BBC.
After that, a vacant world title shot could be well within reach for ‘The Assassin’, who boasts reasonable No.7 ranking with the IBF at 140lbs.
Placed ahead of him is, of course, leading contender Lindolfo Delgado, who Azim says he “really wants” to fight for Richardson Hitchins’ old belt.
Until then, though, Azim must remain focused on his professional development, navigating the same path his father always hoped he would take.
“My dad’s been there since I was four years old and he’s going to continue to stay with me until I retire. That’s what a father figure is. He had it the hard way when he was growing up.
“He lost his two brothers – one died of cancer and one got murdered in Slough. He’s always kept me on the right path.
“He said to me, ‘Don’t be like your uncle [who died at 25]. Take your path in the way I want you to go’. Even before my dad’s other brother passed away from cancer at 40, he said to my dad that I’m going to make our family name massive.”
Azim is certainly capable of becoming a household name, making his family even prouder, but first, he must decisively handle former Teofimo Lopez opponent Claggett.
