Hazmat Zone Alert! Meet the boxer who's electrified the world of boxing with his unorthodox path to becoming WBO super-middleweight champion – Hamzah Sheeraz. And get this: it all started with a spark, literally, in the London pad of Chelsea legend Eden Hazard!
It was 2012, and Sheeraz had just left boxing after missing out on those coveted Commonwealth Youth titles. But little did he know that his next gig would be the catalyst for his world title bid. While fixing lights and plugs at Hazard's swanky flat, something about the Belgian ace's pad ignited a fire within him – 'my ego or goals and aspirations kicked in', Sheeraz revealed to BBC Sport.
Fast-forward two weeks, and he was back in training gear. On his 18th birthday no less, he signed with Frank Warren's Queensberry promotions – the beginning of an incredible journey that would lead him to the very top. May this year saw Sheeraz secure the WBO super-middleweight title with a crushing second-round stoppage over Alem Begic.
The undefeated British fighter (23-0-1) is now gearing up for his first defence, facing German challenger Simon Zachenhuber at the highly anticipated Anthony Joshua fight in Saudi Arabia on Saturday, 26th July. And beyond this weekend? The ultimate showdown against Mexican boxing legend Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez beckons – Sheeraz's idol and the one he dreams of facing.
Sheeraz credits his success to graft and a supportive team behind him. With confidence coursing through his veins, he claims: “I believe my true calling has yet to come. I can feel it coming.” And what a journey that's been – from apprentice electrician to world champion, fuelled by an unexpected spark in the heart of London.