Middleweight contender Hamzah Sheerez (19-0, 15 KOs) is drawing comparisons to boxing legend Thomas Hearns following his impressive first-round knockout victory over Liam Williams (25-5-1, 20 KOs) last Saturday night at the Copper Box Arena in London.
Despite Williams only being knocked out once in his career, Sheerez managed to deliver a devastating blow that left everyone stunned. Williams, a seasoned professional with 13 years of experience, claimed to have had an exceptional training camp in preparation for his bout against the 24-year-old Sheerez, but it proved to be ineffective.
Sheerez displayed his dominance early on, knocking Williams down twice in the first round. The fight was ultimately stopped by Williams’ corner, who threw in the towel at 2:36 of the round.
Sheeraz Shines, Thomas Hearns Comparisons Emerge
Promoter Frank Warren of Queensberry Promotions expressed his admiration for the undefeated Hamzah Sheerez, likening him to the legendary Tommy Hearns. Warren stated, “A superstar was born tonight. He possesses a powerful jab and tremendous punching ability, much like Tommy Hearns. He is Britain’s own Tommy Hearns.”
It is important to note that Thomas Hearns had achieved much more in his career by the age of 24. Hearns won a world title at 21 and faced Sugar Ray Leonard at 22 in their highly anticipated showdown in 1981. He had already knocked out former champion Pipino Cuevas.
In order for Sheerez to live up to the legacy of ‘The Hitman’ Tommy Hearns, Warren will need to match him against tougher opponents. Unlike Hearns, Sheerez’s career should not be hindered by his promoter, and he should face high-caliber opposition at a younger age.
“If Sheerez can replicate the accomplishments of Tommy Hearns, he will undoubtedly become a remarkable fighter. I must say, his performance against Liam Williams was outstanding. No one in the boxing world expected such a dominant display in the first round.”
Sheeraz Ready for World Title Shot
When asked about potential future matchups for Sheerez, Warren expressed his willingness to make fights against Liam Smith or Chris Eubank Jr. However, a more realistic option is Austin ‘Ammo’ Williams, an undefeated middleweight contender promoted by Eddie Hearn. Ammo holds the #3 WBA ranking and would provide the perfect opportunity for Sheerez to climb the rankings and position himself for a world title shot against champion Erislandy Lara.
According to the Source boxingnews24.com