AMATEUR standout Harris Akbar made a seamless transition into the professional ranks yesterday evening, featuring on the undercard of Anthony Cacace vs Leigh Wood.
For those familiar with his talent, it was an eagerly-anticipated debut to say the least – and one which the 26-year-old ultimately came through with minimal difficulty.
As an amateur, Akbar, 1-0, shone brightly at multiple international tournaments, with a gold medal victory at the 2022 European Championships perhaps representing his greatest achievement.
But now, after igniting what looks to be a promising pro career, the Bradford man must keep his trajectory under the Queensberry Promotions banner pointing towards the sky.
And if his performance at the Motorpoint Arena in Nottingham, England, is anything to go by, it would appear that Akbar is unlikely to struggle in that department.
He did, after all, produce a measured display to win all four rounds against Octavian Gratii, a durable but limited super-welterweight operator.
And while a grandstand finish ultimately eluded him, the rangy technician nonetheless showcased several glimpses of his sharp footwork and polished defensive prowess.
But with no interest in stalling his progression, Akbar – who trains at Grant Smith’s Steel City Gym in Sheffield – expects to be back out sooner rather than later.
It is important to highlight, too, that his next outing will represent a significant milestone.
“[That was my] 199th time stepping into the ring, under the lights, so I can’t wait for my next one – [because] it’s the 200 mark,” Akbar told Boxing News’ Andi Purewal shortly after yesterday’s points victory.
“So we’re just going to have a week off – maybe something like that – and then I’ll be back [in the gym] again.”
Not only does Akbar boast bags of potential, but he insists, perhaps more importantly, that an appetite for the big occasions may even give him a psychological edge over his counterparts coming through.
“I don’t feel the pressure,” Akbar added. “People get nervous before their first fight, but I just know I’m born for this – this is where I’m meant to be.
“I get excited [to enter] that ring, and can’t wait to show you guys what I’ve got.”
