16. Nassem Hamed (36-1-0, 31 KO)

Born February 12

 

"Prince" Naseem Hamed is arguably Britain's most entertaining fighter ever.  In addition to his unorthodox attacking style that saw him hold his guard down by his weight, the man known as 'Naz' became equally known for his flamboyant ring entrances.  During his career, the Prince was carried to the ring on a Palanquin, entered on a Flying Carpet, and reenacted the Michael Jackson "Thriller" video.

 

Hamed turned professional in 1992 and took only three years to win the WBO featherweight title when he beat Welshman Steve Robinson in front of a hostile Cardiff crowd.

 

The Prince continued his winning streak and made his USA debut against former world champion Kevin Kelley in New York. In a contest that won the Ring Magazine's "Fight of the Year," Hamed got up off the canvas three times to knockout Kelley in the fourth round.  Hamed ran his record to 35-0 (31 KO's) with wins over Wilfredo Vazquez, Wayne McCulloch and Mexican World Champion Cesar Soto.

In 2001, Hamed suffered his first and only loss at the hands of Mexican legend Marco Antonio Barrera. Hamed lost a unanimous decision after being out-brawled by the gritty Mexican.

 

Hamed returned to the ring in May, 2002 to earn a Unanimous Decision victory over European Champion Manuel Calvo. The win over Calvo turned out to be the last fight for Hamed, who retired soon after with a 36-1 record.

 

The one question about Hamed is his failure to rebound from his sole defeat. However, his body of work throughout his career, and the style and flamboyance with which it was achieved will ensure he is remembered forever.