Benjamin: ‘I’d like to test Adam Azim’

Kaisee Benjamin prowls forward during Friday’s points win

KAISEE Benjamin signalled he’s back and hungry for titles by pounding on tough Nicaraguan Berman Sanchez for six rounds.

Birmingham’s big-hitting former British light-welterweight challenger has, he insists, much bigger fish to fry after winning every round on Wasserman Boxing’s big Telford International Centre show on Friday.

And one man he’d love to share the ring with is explosive European king Adam Azim, considered British boxing’s next big thing. It would certainly be a fight between two KO artists that guarantees fireworks.

Benjamin (150lbs) stepped out of his weight category to face seasoned Sanchez, who came in as a light-middle at 155lbs.

That was the only advantage the South American had. Looking fleshy, the 40-year-old veteran of over 80 fights took some thunderous hooks to the ribs. Tough as old boot leather, he took them all with a deadpan expression.

“I want to stay active,” 28-year-old Benjamin said afterwards. “I don’t feel I’ve been active enough.

“He was tough. I had him hurt a few times and a lot of fighters would’ve taken a knee.

“I’d like a couple of eight rounders before fighting for titles. I’d like to test Azim, see what he’s got.”

Benjamin is blessed with a lot of talent, but, in the past, has frustrated by failing to hit top gear in key contests.

He didn’t need to find top gear against Sanchez, who lost for the 52nd time. But Kaisee’s display was markedly better than his previous outing, a laboured decision over Petar Alexandrov last November.

Benjamin worked his opponent’s body with both hands, then drilled him with hooks and uppercuts to the head.

Sanchez attempted to find sanctuary on the ropes, only to be punished by more short shots.

It proved a hard, painful night for the visitor.

And it signalled Benjamin’s intent to get back where he belongs – amongst Britain’s top fighters.