It’s been five years since globe-trotting Alex Dilmaghani returned to the UK and lit up TV screens with yet another war.
First, he had to settle for a draw after a brilliant fight with Francisco Fonseca. A year later, he was stopped in the last round of the year’s grueling fight against European junior lightweight champion Samir Ziani. After 11 rounds, Dilmaghani was leading the cards.
Despite the results, Dilmaghani’s invigorating style should have secured him a future at championship level, but although these fights were broadcast terrestrial on Channel 5, he has since found himself unable to step into the ring with any of Britain’s top fighters.
There have been cases of withdrawal from work, illness and, worst of all, periods of inactivity.
Dilmaghani’s only in-ring action was under the radar fights in Denmark and France.
All this time he continued to go to work. Day after day, he showed up at the gym, training and sparring. He could complete dreaded uphill sprints and long runs without waiting for any particular reward at the finish line.
Fortunately, problems and delays are a thing of the past. He cooperates with ProBox TV and resumes his career after the fight with Mexican Rene Tellez Giron (19-3, 12 KO) in Washington on Friday.
“I look at boxing like it’s just another day; I’m experienced; I have the experience and it’s just another day,” he told BoxingScene. “Some people go to work to do a nine-to-five. I’m going to tie myself up, I’m going to fight, and whatever will be will be. This is what distinguishes me from many players
“I am a true throwback. People involved in boxing know this. I am proud to be a true warrior. I will put on a fantastic show.”
He has never known an straightforward touch. Girona is a good operator, having beaten the solid American George Acosta in February, but he shouldn’t cause Dilmaghani too many surprises.
The well-traveled Dilmaghani spent years training under the respected Nacho Beristain during his time in Mexico. In addition to providing Juan Manuel Marquez with southpaw sparring ahead of his third fight against Manny Pacquiao, he shared a gym with hundreds of little-known but tough Mexican fighters, many of whom – as has been proven time and time again – would be more than capable of emerging from the darkness and shocking anyone an unsuspecting British fighter.
Dilmaghani believes his education and versatility make him perfectly prepared for whatever Giron brings.
“I respect him because I respect every fighter who enters the ring with me, but I have seen this fighting style many times,” he said. “It will be a good fight and he is a good opponent. Every opponent of mine is complex because we are at a high level. I’ve trained challenging and it’s going to be a great fight and it’s going to be a good show on a great platform. Can’t wait.
“There are different elements to my game. I can box, fight and do many things. I have shown that I can be skillful and fight both inside and out. Let’s see how many pieces and games it has. If I take away his plan A, will he have a plan B? We’ll see.
“I am like good wine. I’m constantly improving. I live a very spotless life and am always striving to improve elements of my craft. Let’s see how it goes. I’m sure, just as he’s sure. Every fighter should be confident.”
While Giron will go into the fight energized after his impressive victory over Acosta, Dilmaghani’s confidence comes from the thousands of hours he has put in over the last few years.
Working with ProBox has already broadened his horizons. His fight against Giron will be part of Lamont Roach’s defense of his WBA junior lightweight title against Feargal McCrory, and his impressive performance will not only introduce him to a fresh audience, but will get his name mentioned in various circles.
After years of uncertainty, Dilmaghani has a plan ready and is confident that his efforts and dedication will bear fruit.
“I have a promoter who has regular fight dates,” he said. “I will be in the gym perfecting my craft and fighting regularly. That means cheerful days as far as I’m concerned. Apparently a lot of people don’t want to fight me in the UK so I’m fighting in the US which for a lot of people is the mecca of boxing so that’s going to be a really invigorating part of my journey
“I am a true warrior. Throughout my career, I have taken on challenges and boxed anyone, anywhere, anytime. I can’t wait to put on a good show for the American public and viewers. I will do everything in my power to achieve a great victory.
“I’m built differently. Mentally and physically I am prepared. I have had many fights, but now no one wants to fight me. I’m being avoided, well, really.
“I truly believe that in a few years my story could be made into a movie. The way I acted and showed inspiration. Many players will say that it is complex for them. Really not. I finally have large fights lined up – and lots of fights – and it’s great.”
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