LONDON — Adam Azim’s march up the junior welterweight ranks continued on Saturday as he beat Ohara Davies via knockout in London.
At just 22 years old, it’s another impressive victory for Azim against a veteran opponent.
Davies, 33, said the bout would likely be his last, telling Sky Sports: “I’m fit. I’ve still got my faculties. I think this might be the end of my boxing career and I’m glad it was against Adam Azim.”
Azim (12-0, 9 KOs) scored a knockdown in Round 5 as Davies took a knee after a shot to the body. After taking more and more punishment as the fight went on, Davies (25-4, 18 KOs) was floored again in Round 8, this time with a left hand to the head. He couldn’t beat the count as Azim stormed to another commanding win.
Azim looked to get on the front foot early, quickly making use of his vicious left hand that has been the undoing of so many previous opponents in his short professional career.
By Round 4, he was starting to build some good combinations, although he couldn’t wipe the smile from the face of a spirited Davies.
However, Azim remained composed, working well behind his jab and choosing his moments wisely.
While in the end a comfortable win, the fight was a significant step up for Azim against an opponent 10 years his senior. Davies has plenty of experience and has shared the ring with the likes of Josh Taylor and Jack Catterall.
A fight with fellow unbeaten countryman Dalton Smith has long been mooted, but Azim said he will take it when the time is right.
“He’s just in a rush. I don’t fear any fight, it would be nice if it’s going to be a main event,” Azim said. “When I do fight him, I’m going to teach him a lesson. I’m sick and tired of him talking about me … it’s going to be dangerous for him.”
Promoter Ben Shalom echoed his fighter’s sentiments, saying: “Adam Azim doesn’t need anyone. He’s going to have a lot of fighters calling him out. He’s the big name, I believe, in the division in this country. Everyone’s going to want that big fight, but we’ll take it when it’s right for us.”
On the undercard, former light heavyweight world title challenger Anthony Yarde beat Ralfs Vilcans on points, 98-92.
It looked as though it would be a quick finish after Yarde (26-3, 24 KOs) floored his opponent in the opening seconds, but the Londoner couldn’t capitalise. Vilcans (17-1, 7 KOs) recovered well and had his fair share of moments in the fight.
Source: www.espn.com