Pro ranks has found a real beast in Amir

Griffiths has a “what hit me?” expression after being blitzed by Amir

MENACING Amir Abubaker pledged an explosive debut prior to his first paid bout at Birmingham’s Eastside Room last night (Friday) – and the middle delivered.

On Anthony Manning’s Nxt Gen show, the powerful 23-year-old demolished Liam Griffiths in the second of a scheduled four rounder.

In the brief time it lasted, Abubaker, by day a Coventry barber, cut his Bognor Regis opponent down to size with stiff jabs and very meaty hooks.

A vicious right to the body pretty much ended Griffiths’ participation. He doubled-up from the blow and, with the visitor’s cornerman standing on ring apron with towel in hand, referee Peter McCormack signalled the end at just 20 seconds of the session.

While it lasted, aggressive Abubaker (11st 8lbs 9oz) softened up Griffiths (11st 7lbs 2oz) with ramrod jabs. Liam, in defensive mode from the off, was given a warning of what was to come in the closing seconds of the first when Amir landed a left hook flush with his back to the ropes.

Even then, I felt Abubaker was in for an early night.

Amir is a man who believes he’s destined for very big things. For starters, he wants to become the first Kurdish world champ. That’s just for starters.

Such lofty achievements cannot be measured by quick victory over Liam Griffiths, a man who last night lost for the 89th time in 96 bouts (one draw). He has, however, only been stopped four times.

Abubaker, who oozes bad intent, brushed him aside.

During a ringside interview, Amir said: “I want to go straight to the top, I want to fight big names.” He named Harley Benn among his wish-list of opponents.

Abubaker’s adoring, noisy fans have no doubt the man is a super-star in the making. I’ll wait a few more bouts before assessing his potential.

One thing is for sure. Abubaker, a bundle of fighting fury in the ring, is going to feature in some real tear-ups.

As an aside, he was the second boxing barber on the bill. Hairdressing today appears to be attracting some very tough individuals.