Promising Bolton boxer aims to become a role model for British Asians

Khaleel ‘Major’ Majid has big plans for the future when it comes to his career, and has said that he wants to be a role model for British Asians.

The 25-year-old is currently preparing for his first fight after being signed by one of the biggest boxing promoters in the world – Eddie Hearn.

Majid is from Bolton and his family hails from Lahore in Pakistan. He has been dedicated towards the sport and training tirelessly at a gym in Manchester.

In an interview with the BBC Asian Network, the young man said that he has a huge responsibility on his shoulders and wants to conduct himself in a way that inspires others.

He says, “It’s good to be respectful to everyone, be the best person you can and treat people with respect.

“It’s about being somebody who is remembered for their values.

“Some people say they look up to me, I’m just trying to be the best example I can be.”

Majid reveals that former professional boxer, Amir Khan, who is also from Bolton, is his inspiration. He tells the BBC that Khan, despite some controversies, has been one of the most influential athletes and a role model for all ethnic minority communities.

“He’s paved the way for the next wave of British Pakistanis and British Asians as a whole,” he says.

“He’s set the bar high, even if I can achieve half of what he has, actually a quarter, it would be huge.”

Majid admits that the journey so far has not been easy for him or his family, as sacrifices had to be made on both sides.

“Sometimes you have to go away from family to training camps, the diet is hardcore, you’re missing out on birthdays, weddings and the whole lot,” he says.

“Even financially, the level I was at, I had to sell tickets myself – if you don’t sell tickets, it means you don’t get to fight.”

He is currently being trained at a fitness centre and gym in central Manchester owned by coach Paulino Silva, who is also training six other up-and-coming boxers.

Mario Silva, one of the aspirants being trained by Silva, says “Khaleel’s achievements are outstanding and he continues to do nothing but inspire us every day”.

Another boxing trainee, Bayaar, who is originally from Nigeria, says, “When we see Khaleel doing what he does, it makes us think we can also reach those levels, especially for someone like me who’s from Africa – it gives me hope.”

Majid’s debut under the Matchroom banner is set to take place at the end of July, and he says the next few months are very important.

He adds that he will do whatever it takes to fulfill his goals and make his community proud.