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Azim faces Claggett in career-defining bout

BBC Sport •
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British boxing star Adam Azim takes on Canadian Steve Claggett at Wembley Arena on Saturday in a bout that could propel the unbeaten 23-year-old toward a world title. Trainer Shane McGuigan, who has worked with multiple champions including Carl Frampton and Josh Taylor, declared Azim the most talented fighter he has ever trained. The light-welterweight enters the BBC Two-televised event with a perfect 14-0 record, featuring 11 knockouts.

Azim faces his toughest test yet against 36-year-old Claggett, a veteran of 50 professional fights with eight defeats. Despite his record, Claggett pushed Teofimo Lopez the distance in a world title challenge two years ago. Azim, known for his blistering hand speed, acknowledged Claggett's experience but promised a "clinical performance" while boasting about his superior conditioning. The Canadian remained focused on his task: "I came here with one job and I plan on seeing it all the way through."

Currently ranked seventh with both the IBF and WBO, Azim needs a "statement win" against Claggett to secure a world title opportunity. Promoter Ben Shalom confirmed that victory could set up a clash with the winner of the upcoming title bout between Lindolfo Delgado and Arthur Biyarslano. With American Richardson Hitchins recently vacating his IBF belt, the path to a championship fight has opened up for Azim.