Pakistan's Waseem to train for ‘biggest fight’ at Mayweather’s gym

Pugilist to face Oliva in Singapore for WBC Asia title

KARACHI: Pakistan’s Mohammad Waseem will prepare for his World Boxing Council Asia title fight at boxing great Floyd Mayweather Jr’s gym in Las Vegas, Nevada where the undefeated American’s uncle, Jeff Mayweather, will train him for more than a month before his fight against Philippines boxer Jether Oliva in July.

The 2014 Commonwealth Games silver-medallist, who turned pro last year, will be fighting for the vacant Asian title on July 17 in Singapore and the 28-year-old is excited to be taking part in the ‘biggest fight’ of his career.



“This is the biggest fight of my career,” Waseem told The Express Tribune. “I want to give my all to this. It’s my chance to make a mark at the global stage. I’ve been working hard to become a world champion and I can’t do that without winning the Asian title. Winning this one will bring me one step closer to my dream.”

The 28-year-old began his journey from Quetta and then represented Pakistan at the Asian Games, AIBA events and Commonwealth Games. He, however, had to give up his dream of representing Pakistan at the Olympics after constant negligence and lack of professionalism toward pugilists from the Pakistan Boxing Federation.

However, Waseem is being taken care of and getting good opportunities in his pro career, thanks to his Korean manager Andy Kim.

The Quetta-born is in top form with an impressive record of three knockout wins in as many professional bouts and he believes his stint with coach Jeff will make him an even better boxer.

“I’ll be training with Jeff in Vegas; I’m happy with it because he is a great coach,” said Waseem. “It’s only going to make me a better boxer. I’m glad Jeff has agreed to become my coach.”

Meanwhile, Kim revealed that Jeff is looking forward to working with Waseem, having been impressed by his style.

“Jeff was amazed with Waseem,” revealed Kim. “He said that most boxers in his gym would stop their training to see him, so that’s a compliment.”

Oliva is more experienced than Waseem; he has won 23 bouts, including 11 knockouts, lost five and drew twice in his career.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 25^th,  2016.

Like Sports on Facebook, follow @ETribuneSports on Twitter to stay informed and join in the conversation.