In recent weeks it had become clear that Adam Azim (11-0) would not be taking on Harlem Eubank, in spite of the fact that the pair appeared to announce their scrap back in March. Earlier in the week it was reported that the highly-rated super-lightweight prospect would take on Ohara Davies (25-3), a rumour which was denied by Davies, but now the bout has been formally confirmed.
Azim and Eubank stepped through the ropes at the O2 Arena during the Wardley-Clarke card on Easter Sunday, validating suspicions that Azim and his promoter Ben Shalom wanted to avoid Dalton Smith – who had been ordered to challenge for Azim’s European title.
Yet, as the weeks and eventually months dragged on without an official fight date, fans questioned the sincerity of the proposal and accused Shalom of creating a smokescreen to deflect attention away from the Smith swerve.
After signing a contract extension with Wasserman Boxing, Harlem Eubank explained earlier on in the week why a scrap with Azim would not be taking place and that he would instead begin the next step of his career at welterweight, whilst rumours of a showdown between Azim and Davies began to gain momentum on social media.
However, upon hearing these whispers, Davies declared on social media that suggestions of him fighting Azim were wide of the mark, labelling it as ‘fake news’ and revealing it was the first that he had heard of the proposed bout.
Now, Boxxer and Sky Sports have announced that Azim will indeed take on Davies, who was on the verge of a world title shot prior to his shock defeat to Ismael Barroso at the beginning of the year. Ahead, of the fight, a confident Azim told Boxxer of his belief that there is only one possible outcome.
“I can’t wait to get back in the ring and back to what I do best. It was a great honour to win and defend the European Title but now I’m ready for my next challenge.
“I’ve known Ohara Davies for many years. I respect him and what he’s achieved in the sport but when we meet in the ring, he’s just another opponent and another step on my journey to the top.
“He’s a good fighter. I think our styles will make for an exciting fight but there’s only going to be one outcome. I’m ready to make a statement and show everybody that I’m ready for the biggest names in the division.”
Meanwhile, the more experienced Davies also came across as self-assured, stating that it will be a shame to put an end to Azim’s 11-fight undefeated streak.
“I’m excited for this fight. I like Adam Azim. I’ve known him since he was very young and it’s amazing to see his success so far in boxing. I followed him in the amateurs, and I’ve always respected him. But he isn’t a kid anymore. He’s grown into a man with massive potential.
“And that’s why it’s a shame that I have to hand him his first defeat. No needle, no hate, I want us to go back to our families happy and healthy after the fight. But this is where it all changes for him. I’m sorry Adam. This is where it ends.”
Azim-Davies will take place at The Copper Box Arena on October 19th, with an undercard expected to be revealed in due course.
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