As the inaugural WBC Grand Prix electrifies Riyadh, four British contenders step into the global spotlight. This isn`t just about prize money; it`s about making history, forging legacies, and proving that the heart of British boxing beats stronger than ever, from Wolverhampton to Liverpool.
The desert sands of Riyadh are accustomed to grand spectacles, but a new kind of drama is unfolding with the inaugural WBC Grand Prix. This isn`t merely a series of bouts; it`s a high-stakes, knockout tournament designed to catapult rising stars onto the global stage. Beyond the substantial prize money—exceeding $200,000 for the ultimate victor—the true treasure is the coveted Jose Sulaiman Trophy and the unparalleled opportunity to become the mandatory challenger for the WBC Silver title in their respective divisions. For British boxing, this event represents a crucial proving ground, with four distinct talents poised to leave their mark.
The Grand Prix: A Direct Path to Glory
In a sport often convoluted by promotional politics and intricate matchmaking, the WBC Grand Prix offers a refreshingly direct pathway. Fighters compete, win, and advance, with their destiny firmly in their own gloved hands. This format intensifies every punch, every round, as the stakes increase exponentially with each victory. For the quartet of British hopefuls, this is their chance to bypass the usual labyrinthine climb, offering an expedited route to significant international recognition and potentially, a world-level title shot. It’s an opportunity that few could refuse, drawing them to the glittering arenas of Saudi Arabia.
Meet the British Contingent: Diverse Paths, Shared Ambition
From the disciplined amateur pedigree to the gritty realities of balancing a full-time job with professional aspirations, these four British boxers embody the spirit of the sport. They arrive in Riyadh with undefeated records, diverse fighting styles, and a collective hunger to transform potential into undeniable global presence. Let`s delve into the stories of these contenders:
Gully Powar: The Dhol Drum Dynamo (Featherweight)
Hailing from Wolverhampton, 22-year-old Gully Powar (11-0, 1 KO) brings not only an unblemished record but also a unique cultural flair to the ring. His entrance, traditionally accompanied by the resonant beat of Dhol drums, is a statement of intent, vibrant and attention-grabbing. Yet, it`s his work inside the ropes that truly speaks volumes. Powar has yet to drop a single round in his professional career, a testament to his exceptional skill and control. This dominance isn`t new; it`s built upon a stellar amateur foundation, including five Midlands National Amateur Championships and a semi-final appearance at the 2021 National Amateur Championships. Riyadh marks his most significant test, facing California’s Japhethlee Llamido (12-1, 4 KOs) in the round of 32. This isn`t just a fight; it`s a statement about whether his hometown heroics can translate to international acclaim.
Nathan Forrest: The Geordie Mechanic with a Punch (Super-Lightweight)
From Durham, 26-year-old Nathan Forrest (9-0, 3 KOs) embodies the steadfast, hardworking spirit of British boxing. A full-time mechanic, Forrest`s journey in the professional ranks has been one of steady, deliberate progression. Over 32 months, he has compiled nine victories, culminating in claiming the Northern Area lightweight title last March with a knockout. Now campaigning at 140 pounds, he`s under the astute guidance of trainer Neil Fannan, a partnership that promises further refinement. Forrest`s record may suggest a points fighter, but he has been steadily developing formidable punch power, stopping three of his last five opponents. He`s faced durable opposition, going the distance with fighters who have rarely been halted, proving his mettle. For Forrest, Riyadh is less about a tune-up and more about an engine overhaul for his career.
Hamza Azeem: The King of the Custodians (Middleweight)
Birmingham`s Hamza `King` Azeem (8-0, 1 KO) brings a truly unique background to the middleweight division. A prison officer by trade, Azeem transitioned to professional boxing with a relatively lean amateur record of just 11 contests. This meant he`s been learning on the job, honing his craft against seasoned journeymen while building an impressive undefeated streak. His dedication is clear: to balance the rigorous demands of his profession with the brutal realities of professional boxing is no small feat. Azeem registered his first stoppage win in October, dispatching Martin Shaw in a single round, a clear indication that his power is evolving. His eight career bouts have largely kept him close to home, making Riyadh a significant leap into unfamiliar international territory—a true test of his burgeoning kingship.
Sean Arkwright: Liverpool`s Resilient Southpaw (Middleweight)
Last, but certainly not least, is Liverpool`s Sean Arkwright (7-0, 0 KOs), another middleweight southpaw, though he has previously campaigned at super-middleweight. Arkwright`s story is one of resilience and unwavering determination. After serving a two-year ban, he returned to the sport in the latter half of 2024 with a renewed vigor, boxing four times in quick succession. His amateur pedigree is substantial, with 34 wins from 45 bouts, including two national semi-final appearances and a silver medal at the Monkstown Box Cup. A part-time railway worker, Arkwright is now determined to make up for lost time and accelerate his professional trajectory. Trained by Ste Harkin, he aims to use the WBC Grand Prix as a launchpad, proving that a momentary derailment can lead to a spectacular return to the main line.
The Crucible of Riyadh: A Defining Moment
For these four British boxers, the WBC Grand Prix is more than just a tournament; it is a crucible. It’s an unforgiving environment where talent meets opportunity, where the stakes are immense, and where reputations can be forged or shattered in an instant. They arrive as undefeated prospects, but the international stage demands another level of performance. Their individual journeys—from Powar`s rhythmic precision to Forrest`s developing power, from Azeem`s rapid learning curve to Arkwright`s determined comeback—converge in Riyadh, carrying the collective hopes of British boxing.
While the heavyweight tournament, commencing on Sunday, will sadly proceed without British participants, the featherweight, super-lightweight, and middleweight divisions are primed for British impact. As the global boxing community turns its attention to Riyadh, these four fighters stand ready. Their performances will not only shape their own careers but also send a clear message about the depth and resilience of British boxing on the world stage. The fights are live on DAZN, and the world is watching.
