UFC stars back new city centre fight gym

Samed takes fighter Bilal Mohammed on the pads

BIRMINGHAM has a gleaming new fight gym – and it’s already attracting big names in the world of combat sport.

BFC – Box Fit Coaching - Academy, in Digbeth, officially opened its doors on Saturday and will be a base for boxing, mixed martial arts and general keep-fit.

The brand is already out there. BFC amateur boxing club was based at top pro Shaun Cogan’s gym and this year gained a Midlands Box Cup champ in Bilal Mohammed.

Now those fighters have their own sweat shop.

Samed with UFC king Leon Edwards

And the academy has already been used by UFC superstars Leon Edwards, from Birmingham, and Khamzat Chimaev, Chechnya born, Dubai based.

It is the realisation of a four year dream for BFC boss Samed Zamir who had 60 amateur bouts for Solihull, Birmingham City and Eastside clubs.

He has travelled to America to gain experience as a trainer and studied under legendary Freddie Roach.

The 33-year-old said: “I’m biased, but I think it’s the best combat facility in the city centre.

“We cater for mixed martial arts, ju jitsu, boxing…and also for people who want to get fit.”

Samed with sponsor Gulraze from You Want Beef?

The mornings are given over to fitness sessions, kids boxing classes take place between 4.30 and 5.30, adults 6 to 7 and women’s sessions from 7 to 8.

Samed thanked the list of sponsors who made the Academy possible, particularly takeaway franchise You Want Beef?