NAZ READY TO RETURN
Sheffield Today UK
PRINCE Naseem Hamed today sensationally claimed he could return to the ring in the next few months.
Despite weight increase and boxing inactivity since May 2002, the Sheffield superstar hinted he's poised to launch an unlikely come-back.
"I've been boxing since I was seven years of age," said the 31-year-old. "I simply needed a break.
"I've got two beautiful sons and a wife, and wanted to spend some time with them. Now, though, I've had my break. I miss boxing and I believe boxing misses me, too."
"In the New Year you could witness something special."
Naz also named the man he feels is heir to the Hamed throne.
Australian super-featherweight Bilal Dibb, 20, will appear on Ricky Hatton's undercard in Sheffield on November 26.
"This kid is the second coming of Naseem Hamed," Naz said.
"He's an awesome fighter. He's been watching lots of my videos, and has a tremendous amount of style, charisma and flair. I urge everyone to watch this kid because I have no doubts he can go all the way."
Naz will be rooting for IBF light-welterweight champion Hatton in his unification battle with WBA titleholder Carlos Maussa at the Hallam FM Arena.
"Hatton is a great fighter," the ex WBO, IBF and WBC featherweight king declared.
"In beating Kostya Tszyu he managed to achieve something I never did in my career. He beat a legend, an all-time great.
"I believe Hatton is good enough to go on and match my 15 world title defences."
Throughout the course of Hamed's 10-year career, featherweight Naz was a big star in the USA and he is tipping Hatton to be Britain's next breakout star.
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That'd be great if Naz made a comeback, whether he could or not though is another thing. I doubt it anyway. Hes put on far too much weight and hes been out so long. But we'll see, Naz at his peak against Scott Harrison would of been a hell of a fight, one id pay too watch.