Khan to return after suffering freak injury

Shabaz Khan….welter belter set to fight at Holiday Inn in April

THE depression Shabaz Khan has endured during the year spent sidelined by an injury that goes beyond “freak” is understandable.

So is the relief following news the dark days are over. Alum Rock’s Khan, a wildly popular welter, will return to the ring in April – 14 months after his debut and only professional bout.

The 25-year-old dazzled in that one. Roared on by a noisy army of supporters at the Holiday Inn, he forced vastly experienced Michael Mooney to retire after two rounds.

Only days before his planned second contest in May, Khan suffered damage in a swimming baths incident bordering on bizarre.

Someone diving into the pool accidently caught the fighter’s face with his arm. Shabaz – by day a school head of year – sustained injury to his left eye that has taken months to heal.

“It’s been depressing for me,” he said. “I love boxing, I don’t do anything else. Last year was hard for me. Boxing is my life.”

It’s a hurdle on a journey that is inspiring. Khan was a 15 stone heavyweight when he first walked into a boxing gym. He’s piled on pounds during the enforced lay-off, but is now a 10-and-a-half stone fighter.

The man behind that dramatic weight-loss programme was trainer Pete Leachman who injected belief and dedication into Khan at Acocks Green ABC.

“I want four fights this year, then look at titles next year,” said Shabaz, “and, hopefully, massive numbers come out for this next fight.”

“Massive numbers” certainly came out for his debut.

“This time I’m letting my hands go, I’m hungrier than ever, I want a dramatic new beginning.”

Khan is not lacking in self-belief, but refuses to make brash claims about a future studded with top titles. That’s refreshing.

“It’s about how far I want to go, how far God wants me to go,” he said. “If I stay disciplined, I feel I can go a long way, but I’m taking it step by step – I don’t want to put that pressure on myself. I believe I have the talent and strength to go places, I believe I can become one of the Midlands’ best welterweights.”

Khan is currently searching for sponsors for his April assignment at the Holiday Inn. If you can help, email mshabazkhan818@gmail.com