British talent Hamzah Sheeraz is poised for a reinvention following his controversial split draw with WBC middleweight champion Carlos Adames in February. Although many felt Sheeraz was fortunate to walk away without a loss, the 23-year-old has chosen not to linger on what might have been. Instead, he’s making two big changes: leaving the 160-pound ranks and switching trainers to team up with renowned cornerman Andy Lee.
The 6-foot-3 Sheeraz says he had “no other choice” but to head to the super middleweight division. “One hundred percent for my health,” he told Boxing King Media, referencing the toll of his most recent camp and a hand injury he sustained against Adames.
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His move from Southern California-based coach Ricky Funez to Ireland, where he’ll train with former world middleweight titlist Andy Lee, underscores Sheeraz’s intention to overhaul his approach. Sheeraz says he’s been impressed by Lee’s philosophy and corner work, with the two forging a relationship built on Lee’s studied credentials and a fresh atmosphere. “I used to watch him a lot,” Sheeraz said. “I never thought I’d be training with him, but it was time for something different.”
Ultimately, Sheeraz hopes these radical shifts will deliver the next spark in his ascent. Reflecting on his string of early knockouts prior to the Adames fight, he acknowledged that constant triumphs can mask lingering weaknesses. “When you keep winning, not much change happens,” he said. “When you realize changes can’t be made, I think it’s time to move on.”
By leaving middleweight behind and linking up with Lee, Sheeraz plans to transform the lessons of his recent draw into bigger paydays and statement victories in a new weight class. Will he succeed?
Learn about Hamzah Sheeraz here.
Image Credit: Sky Sports