07.04.04 – By L. Dodemaide – Three years ago Naseem ‘ Prince’ Hamed was on the verge of becoming the undisputed king of British boxing. His unorthodox style, his power and his personality had captured the mind and heart of Britain. The sky was the limit, that was until the Prince stepped into the ring with a man by the name of Marco Antonio Barrera in mid 2001.
Over twelve rounds the Prince slowly loosened his grip on the WBO featherweight title and the legacy he was on his way to obtaining. Then when the decision was announced it was clear, and just like that Naseem Hamed disappeared out of boxing’s royal family. Naseem Hamed has not fought since May of 2002, when he won a dominating decision over Manuel Calvo, but failed to set the boxing world alight.
The Prince always said he had the heart of a lion, and in his career captured the heart of Britain. But it appeared this career would end, as most boxers do, following a fall from grace. That was what we thought up until now…
The rumours throughout Britain are now that Prince Naseem will be making a comeback later this year, at 30 years of age the Prince still has time on his side and although this may be a last gasp, I believe he can still make a major impact in the world of boxing once more.
Country man, Michael Brodie appears the likely opponent. And if Brodie can beat In-Jin Chi this weekend and win the vacant WBC featherweight title, the Prince may be presented a title fight that will truly return him to his throne.
Throughout time Prince’s have been the protagonist of many a fairy tale, is the boxing career of Prince Naseem about to become another one?
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