SPOTLIGHT: Mr Adam Azim
Interview - Tajinder Hayer
Photography - Joseph Sinclair
Styling - Carlotta Constant
Grooming - Charlotte Yeomans
Ranked in the Top Ten world super lightweight boxers Adam Azim has learnt to use his ADHD as a tool to propel him further as a boxer and to help him realise his ambition to become the youngest British-Asian world champion boxer.
Named BBC’s young British boxer of the year, Adam was first introduced to boxing by his father at a young age as an outlet for his ADHD. Since then, 21-year-old Adam has truly taken the world of British boxing by storm, having positioned himself within the top 10 world rankings with an outstanding professional record of 8-0-(6 KO’s). Since turning pro at only the age 19, he has become not only a true role model and inspiration for the Pakistani and Muslim community, aiming to emulate world Champion Amir Khan and become the youngest British- Asian world champion boxer, but also a leading face for young people living with ADHD. Adam is extremely passionate about raising people’s awareness and understanding of the disorder and with his incredible success has become a huge champion for how people can use it for their success.
His most recent fight saw Adam go the distance for the first time since turning pro, against the undefeated Santos Reyes as the headlining act at Wembley Arena, adding yet again to his unblemished record which was a contributing factor to being voted the BBC’s british boxer of the year 2022. Known for his rapid hand speed, Adam consistently proves his powerful punches, impressive skill set and shows his appreciated to his fans with his signature celebratory flip. His reputation and entertainment in the ring are quickly becoming known and bringing a whole new set of eyes to the generational talent.
Tipped to win a world title by the end of this year Adam is now in training for his next show stopping bout in September, and spoke to The Rakish Gent so we could learn more about him.
Can you tell us what it was like suffering with ADHD, before you started boxing?
My ADHD was extremely difficult to handle when I was younger. I was really hyperactive as a child with a huge excess of energy and found it very hard to stay focused at school, which eventually led me to become home schooled.
Who had the idea that boxing could be an outlet for you?
My dad tried introducing me to a few different sports when I was 4 years old, to find me an outlet for all of my energy. I began with football and cricket, before trying my hand at boxing. It was within the boxing ring that my dad quickly saw the talent and speed I had for the sport and decided to keep me on that path.
You’ve said previously that you want to be a role model. Who were your role models and do you feel a pressure to be a particular kind of/ good role model?
I grew up watching boxing champion Amir Khan. He was a huge inspiration to me and the British Pakistani community; and I knew from a young age that I wanted to follow in his footsteps. Outside of the ring, Muhammad Ali was also one of my favourites and someone I looked up to. In terms of being a role model to others, having really struggled with my ADHD from a young age, I feel very passionately about using my platform and success to help and inspire others coping with the same.
How would you describe your boxing style?
My boxing style is very unique and offers a mix of speed, technique, power and aggression, helping make me a well-rounded fighter.
Have you considered a career in anything else?
I really enjoyed playing cricket as a child and was actually really good at it, so if I had another career it would probably be as a professional cricketer or potentially a more business-related role.
What is a typical day like for you?
I have a really strict daily routine and spend every morning and afternoon Monday to Friday in training. Sunday is the only day a week I allow myself to relax.
How long do you normally have to prep for a fight?
I usually have between 7 to 10 weeks in camp to prepare for a fight, however sometimes it can be as few as 6 weeks.
How are you preparing for the fight with Aram Fanyan?
I’m continuing to train hard as always and pushing to get in as many rounds with different sparring partners to get as much experience as possible.
In your opinion what makes a good boxer?
I believe what makes the best boxer is an ability to stay focused and disciplined and also being able to conduct yourself well both inside and outside of the ring.
Follow Adam Azim on Instagram