Former world champion boxer Prince Naseem Hamed presents a dramatically different figure today compared to his fighting prime, having gained a significant amount of weight since retiring from the sport over two decades ago.
From Featherweight Champion to Life After the Ring
The Sheffield-born fighter, once one of the most electrifying and entertaining personalities in boxing, retired at the young age of 28. His final professional bout was a unanimous decision victory over Manuel Calvo in 2002. During his peak years as a featherweight world champion, Hamed weighed in at a mere nine stone.
Now 51, the man known for his flamboyant ring entrances and powerful punches has largely retreated from public life. This contrasts sharply with his former status as a consummate showman who captivated British sports fans throughout the 1990s and early 2000s.
The Root of the Change: A Multi-Million Pound Family Dispute
According to his brother, Ali Hamed, the boxer's substantial weight gain is directly linked to severe stress stemming from a bitter £12 million family feud. Ali revealed these details to The Sun in 2022.
"His weight is a result of the trauma and stress," Ali stated. "He’s turned in on himself and has just eaten and eaten." The dispute centres on a large sum of money Prince Naseem gave his parents to invest in property. That investment reportedly grew to be worth around £12 million.
Following his mother's death in 2020, Hamed believed he was entitled to the money as it was an investment. However, his eight siblings argued it was a gift and should be divided among them. This disagreement led to a brutal falling out, leaving Hamed estranged from his family.
Ali further criticised his brother's handling of wealth, claiming, "So much of his wealth was p***ed up a wall, including on buying the biggest mango farm in Yemen that is now all dead and dishevelled."
Legacy, Son's Career, and a New Biopic
Despite his personal struggles, Hamed's legacy in the ring remains untarnished. He became Britain's youngest world champion in 1995 at age 21 after defeating Steven Robinson for the WBO featherweight title. His professional record stands at an impressive 36 wins from 37 fights, with his retirement prompted by chronic hand issues.
Today, the boxing icon supports his son, Aadam Hamed, who has followed him into the sport. The 25-year-old turned professional in 2023 and maintains a perfect 6-0 record. He is scheduled to fight Kasey Bradnum in Manchester later this month.
Coinciding with this new chapter, Hamed's remarkable story is returning to the public eye. A new biopic titled 'Giant', detailing his rise to fame, is released in UK cinemas today. The film features James Bond actor Pierce Brosnan in the role of Hamed's influential trainer, Brendan Ingle.
