One of British boxing's most feared and avoided talents, Shakiel Thompson, has taken a monumental step in his career by signing a lucrative promotional agreement with Frank Warren's Queensberry Promotions.
A New Chapter with a Boxing Powerhouse
The 28-year-old Sheffield-born fighter, who boasts an imposing 6'3" frame and southpaw stance, believes the deal will finally unlock the opportunities that have eluded him. Thompson is now slated to face Brad Pauls on the undercard of Moses Itauma vs Jermaine Franklin at the Manchester Arena on January 24.
At the fight's launch press conference in November, promoter Frank Warren revealed a significant incentive, stating the winner would be likely to secure a 'big title shot'. For Thompson, this fight represents a long-awaited chance to step out of the shadows and into the spotlight of the shark-infested middleweight division.
Ending the Avoidance, Embracing the Challenge
In an exclusive discussion, Thompson explained his move to Queensberry. "Frank is the biggest promoter in the world. You see what he is doing," said Thompson. "I have been chasing for opportunities against all the middleweights. I have been calling them out. I haven’t been getting the fights. Frank said he would be able to get those opportunities for me. And look at what he’s done, he’s delivered the Brad Pauls fight."
He paid credit to Pauls for accepting the bout, acknowledging his reputation as a high-risk, low-reward opponent. "Hats off to Brad for taking the fight because no other middleweight wanted this fight," Thompson admitted, suggesting his size, power, and awkward style have been key deterrents.
Roadmap to Gold in 2026
Thompson sees the Pauls clash as the launchpad for a career-defining year. "This is where everything takes off. This is the start of it all," he declared. His immediate goal after victory is clear: the British middleweight title. He has previously seen opportunities for that belt vanish, with Tyler Denny and Brad Pauls himself pulling out of scheduled eliminators.
Looking further ahead, the undefeated fighter has his sights set on newly crowned British and Commonwealth champion George Liddard. "A thousand per cent," Thompson responded when asked about a potential showdown. "I do not avoid anyone to be honest. He is a good boxer. He has got the British and the Commonwealth and they are the belts that I want."
Thompson enters this pivotal fight on the back of a second-round knockout win over Grant Dennis in September. With the backing of a top promoter and a clear path to titles, 2026 is shaping up to be the year Shakiel Thompson transforms from Britain's most avoided fighter into its most sought-after champion.
