To suggest that there may be pressure on a boxer, whose father was a former world champion, may seem an obvious thing to point out. Hasim Rahman Jr couldn’t be any clearer on such a suggestion.
“Pressure only makes me better, I can’t even fathom not showing up and giving it my best because of how hard I work. It’s something that’s always been there and I’ve grown accustomed to it. It’s more eyes on me and hopefully I get the recognition I deserve after this because it’s been a long time – I’m 30 years old and I feel like I’m one of the best fighters in the world. So hopefully, after this fight, the boxing world, and the world in general will give me the respect that I feel I deserve.”
In a historical fight that’s being billed as “Sons of Legends”, Hasim Rahman Jr faces James McKenzie Morrison in Las Vegas for the WBC USBA Heavyweight Title. With both men having father’s that both won Heavyweight titles in their own careers, (Hasim Rahman and Tommy Morrison), the event marks a career defining fight for both men.
Although it may well be true that this is the first time in history that the sons of two heavyweight champions have fought each other when the first bell sounds on Friday, Hasim Rahman Jnr knows that this fight represents an even more significant moment for both of their respective careers.
“This is actually a breath of fresh air for the both of us because we’ve both had trouble securing fights with opponents before, because of our names – people not wanting to fight or to give us a chance – so this fight gives both of us a chance on the same night to turn ourselves from prospect to contender.”
“I’m feeling great, I’ve trained harder than I’ve ever trained before, I’ve ran harder than I’ve ever ran before, I’m more focused and more dedicated than I’ve ever been.”
“This is the first time that I’ve trained where I believe that my opponent can win. He has everything it takes to win. This training camp has been very different mentally, physically and spiritually. It’s been a completely different thing compared to what I’m used to. This is a huge opportunity for the both of us. I think my opponent is very focused and I know he’s coming to represent his family in ecstatic fashion, just like I am.”
Hasim Rahman Jnr working with 2 x heavyweight champion and father Hasim Rahman
