United Kingdom

Teen boxer dubbed “next Amir Khan” dies in car crash while supporters pay tribute

A teenage boxing star called “the next Amir Khan” was killed in a car accident.

The news of his death was confirmed by his promoter Sam Jones on Sunday morning after the 18-year-old died in a car accident near Birmingham.

Wolverhampton-born Ali Tazim was part of the Walsall’s Pound 4 boxing academy and signed a professional contract with Probellum just three weeks ago.

He spent the last week training with Floyd Mayweather Sr.

Mr Jones wrote on Twitter: “I woke up this morning to the news that Ali Tazim had died at the age of 18.

“I can’t believe I can’t even handle it properly.

“We only talked yesterday about how he will shed light on the professional game, all I can think about is Ali and his wonderful family.”

The teen boxing sensation was expected to have a bright future in the sport after a promising amateur career.

He won 15 international gold medals in 51 matches.

Earlier, Tazim met with former world champion Amir Khan, who said of the youngster: “He will be the next me and will make history.”

Speaking after Tazim won two gold medals in the Bristol Boxing Cup, Khan told Express & Star in 2020: “I definitely think he’s the next big thing for sure.

“I mean, the skills he has, the movement, everything really reminds me of me when I was younger and how I fought.

The Wolverhampton superstar achieved 45 successes and won medals at events, including the Monkstown Box Cup.

Today, a tribute was paid to the teenager and his grieving family.