Debut Corner with Waleed Din

Debut Corner with Waleed Din

BBN pay a visit to Sheffield to meet the 2013 Senior ABA light flyweight champion, Waleed Din. Following a successful amateur career the 21-year-old embarks on his pro debut on September 13th at the Octagon Centre, Sheffield on a Dennis Hobson Promotions show.  

What made you want to start boxing? “My dad’s always been into boxing so from a young age I’d watch boxing all the time. It wasn’t until I turned 16 that I entered a boxing gym called Sheffield Lane Top which is where I am currently training 5 years on.”

#How old were you when you had your first fight and how did you do? “I was 17 when I had my first amateur contest. I was ready for my first fight after a couple months of training but due to me being very light in weight (44kg), I had to wait a couple more months for my first contest which I won on a majority decision.”

Who was your boxing hero growing up and why? “Growing up I loved watching Naz but I now enjoy watching the likes of Sugar Ray Leonard and Guillermo Rigondeaux.”

How well did you do in the amateurs? “I did really well as an amateur winning many national titles. In 2013 I won the Senior ABA’s; I should have won it again this year if it wasn’t for bad judging.”

What made you decide to turn pro? “I was thinking of turning pro after winning the ABA’s in 2013 but, after having a good think, I decided to wait another year and try to make history by winning the ABA’s again. With the way that the decision went in the semi-finals, I decided it’s the right time.”

What team do you have around you? “I have a very good team around me, I’m training with the coach who I started off with, Keith Palmer, and things are going really well.” What sort of fighting style do you have? “My fighting style is HIT and DON’T GET HIT!”

What ambitions do you have for your pro career? “I am in boxing to go all the way – I want to be a world champion. If I didn’t think I had the skills to become one then I wouldn’t bother with boxing.”

When is your first fight and who will be there in support? “My pro debut is on September 13th at The Octagon Centre in Sheffield. My family and friends will be there supporting, like always. I have family travelling from High Wycombe, Keighley, and Birmingham so I cannot wait to put on a show.”

Any message for the fans? “I want to thank everyone for their continuous support, I appreciate it, I really do. Also a big thank you to my sponsors for their help, without their support it would not be possible. So if you’re ever in need of any Italian furniture then get in contact with me. My sponsors, New Roomstyle will sort you a good price out lol!”