Even though it is not the first to take the plunge, KSI’s Misfits Boxing is a pioneer when it comes to the crossover trend in the sport. Images of Muhammad Ali and Antonio Inoki fighting a mixed-rules bout in 1976 are hard to forget.
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Its launch aimed to tap the growing interest in short-term, roller-coaster boxing matches. So often, two fighters who may not be your typical bred-in-the-bone boxers land up for a bout that lasts between six to eight rounds.
In collaboration with live-streamers DAZN, Misfits launched the X series on August 27th at the O2 Arena. 001 had roughly eight bouts, of which two had KSI as the contender. He went on to win, first against Swarmz, and then wrapped up Luis Pineda in the final round of the second bout. His brother Deji also won his first fight since his professional debut.
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KSI’s X003
X003 recently concluded on November 13th at the Moody Centre in Austin, Texas. The main card was between Nurideen Shahid Shabazz and Walid Sharks. Both had achieved fame as avid TikTokers and debuted as professional boxers.
The four-rounded contest stopped in round three when a right cross from Deen landed squarely and neatly on Walid’s face. With no answer of his own, the sheer force of the punch had the Damascus-born Sharks dropping on the canvas. Even though he got up as the referee counted, it was clear the fight was out of him when he walked away to his corner, looking listless.
Now, this being the season of rematches, anticipating Walid to be an exception could be scandalous. A video clip doing rounds shows KSI consoling a downcast Walid, seeking an opportunity for a rematch with Deen. Understanding the youngster’s plight, KSI reassured, “I will make it happen. No I promise you, I promise you…”
Love this give @WalidSharks the rematch man @KSI @MamsTaylor @MisfitsBoxing pic.twitter.com/iGvd4ycAvZ
— Call Me Ham 👳🏾♀️ (@thehalalham) November 20, 2022
Most could empathize with how things stacked up with Walid.
This was wholesome as fuck, really felt for Walid here 🙁
— Prab Sandhu (@prabhh19) November 20, 2022
@MamsTaylor Make it happen
— shark attack 🦈 ❗️ (@Diego64391616) November 20, 2022
The whole situation was pretty emotional for most.
Fucking wholesome that wanna I cry. Look at Walid bro 😭😥
— BBX (@YungBillyBoyX) November 20, 2022
as much slack as i give ksi, this is real af.
— Asaad Alshahin (@Asaaaaaddd) November 20, 2022
Man this is the KSI people don’t see on camera. You can tell Walid is emotional and KSI understands that as is handling him like a big brother. Genuinely so comforting to see
— MOSK boxing (@MoskieSoc) November 20, 2022
Fans haven’t missed out on The Misfits’ boss, a known philanthropist, who ensures active participation in different causes, now reaching out and assisting a young boxer.
Let’s hope more and more boxers and fans take inspiration to be more compassionate toward each other, especially those still learning the ropes. Let us know if you agree with us.
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