Hassan Azim steps back into the boxing ring tonight after a challenging period marked by health struggles, having competed in just one bout over the past three years.
Return to Action After Health Setbacks
The fighter, eager to reclaim his momentum, faces Sean Murray in London for his ninth professional contest. Azim has spent much of that time sidelined, observing as his younger brother Adam captured the spotlight in the ring.
Azim expresses confidence that the medical issues that derailed his career are now resolved. “I had a lot of problems, I had issues with my health, and I needed to take time off,” he stated. “I kept coming back but I just kept getting injured and I kept going to the hospital; I had so many problems. I was in a dark time where I was 80-90kg and had all these health issues and problems, and I was like, am I ever going to come back to normal again?”
Now, Azim has shed the weight, returning to his fighting form at 69-70kg. He describes his recent training camp as exceptional and credits a higher power for his recovery. “But God blessed me and now I’m back at 69-70kg and I’m looking sharper than ever. My training camp’s been amazing and I’m just feeling so much better. I just feel like it’s God’s plan, God’s timing, and I think I needed that year or two break. I’ve been training since I was 12 years old, so I’ve never had a long break. I just believe that everything happens for a reason.”
Overcoming Cancellations and Family Support
Azim notes that several planned fights fell through due to various issues, including contract disputes, with three or four cancellations during his comeback attempts. This year, however, he aims to stay active, targeting at least five or six bouts starting with tonight’s matchup.
During his hiatus, Azim found a silver lining in supporting his brother Adam, who was set to headline the card but withdrew due to injury. The time away allowed Azim to assist fully without dividing his attention. “Seeing Adam go through the fight weeks did make me realise I do miss it a lot; fight week and training and the camp and being on a diet and things like that,” Azim shared. “But I was so happy for Adam, and the thing is, I’m the eldest brother so I look after all my siblings. I was just helping him as much as they can.”
“We have each other’s back all the time and it was in a way it was a blessing because then it’s all full attention on Adam so I could help him,” he added. “If I was fighting on the same card as Adam I’d be worried about myself and Adam at the same time. But with just Adam fighting, it was easier for me. I could fully focus on Adam, help him do the behind-the-scenes stuff, whatever he needs me to do. I’m always there 24/7. I look out for Adam as well and I love him a lot.”
