Rising star Ziyad "Zizzo" Almaayouf returns to London at O2 Arena

Fast-developing boxing star, Ziyad “Zizzo” Almaayouf (2-0, 1 KO) is set to step into the ring for his 3rd career bout and 2nd fight in a little over a month this coming Saturday. It is clear that bright lights and the big stage aren’t a problem for the young man being tagged as a potentially huge boxing star in Saudi Arabia. 

The New York City-born, Los Angeles-residing junior welterweight is certainly getting his fair share of exposure on big cards. Coming off his last fight on the undercard of the huge Jake Paul – Tommy Fury fight in Diriyah, Saudi Arabia, he is set to step through the ropes in Greenwich, England at the O2 Arena. This time he will be one of the support bouts for a card headlined by British heavyweight star Anthony Joshua. The card will be shown on DAZN.

Managed by California-based Rachel Charles, the Buddy McGirt-trained, “Zizzo” showed a lot of heart and determination after getting dropped by rugged Ronald Martinez of Ecuador in his last fight. However, Almaayouf got up and proceeded to outwork his opponent in picking up the UD 4 win. It is clear dedication and hard work are at the core of Almaayouf as a fighter. 

There isn’t yet club show-level boxing in Saudi Arabia, where despite only a couple of fights as a pro, Almaayouf has a strong following and is showing all kinds of star potential. So, if “Zizzo” wants to stay busy he’ll have to be willing to play some road games, between big Saudi Arabia shows, to stay active and developing.

In an interview shortly before turning pro, Almaayouf described his style. As well, it was evident that “Zizzo” has an unrelenting work ethic and has been prepared since the day he started to box to do whatever is necessary in his devotion and preparation for fights. This is something that will certainly please trainer McGirt, himself was an outstanding fighter in his Hall of Fame career.

“I have a strong jab. I used to study McGirt’s jab, one of the best in boxing. I know the importance of a good jab. But, even more so, I have a good boxing IQ”, said Almaayouf. “That is so important. My boxing IQ allows me to control the ring and box when I need to and brawl when I need to, and I can do both. Understanding how to control the ring and control the fight is so important”, he said.

While Saudi Arabia is certainly in the developing stages of its potential to be a player in big boxing events moving forward, all indications are that it is working towards being one of the go-to sites for major fights. The now burgeoning Saudi boxing base is excited about the future of the sport in their country and is more than happy to host the party.

And while Zizzo has a lot of eyes on him as he develops fight by fight, he seems excited and more than up for the challenge.

“He was out here training in LA, but he’s in the UK now”, said manager Charles, a long-respected boxing veteran. “He felt good after his last fight and he is excited to get back in the ring and perform”, she said. “This will be his first fight under his new multi-fight deal with ‘Skill Challenge’, and he’s observing Ramadan”, she continued. “He is so ready to go, Saturday can’t come quick enough. This kid is special”.

Going into (only) his 3rd fight, with a limited amateur background and coming from a country not known for boxing - there is a lot of room for skepticism. But something tells me that will only fuel the drive for the tough, talented, and doggedly determined Almaayouf. From the moment he turned pro his goals were clear. 

“First, I want to win a world title one day. I want to unify and become an undisputed champion. But, more so than that, I want to be the first local fighter to really represent Saudi, Arabia as a world champion on the world stage. I want to proudly represent the heritage of Saudi, Arabia and Egypt and the Arab world”.