Izzy Asif Enhances GBM Promotions Schedule with Introduction of 8-Man Tournament

GBM Sports promoter Izzy Asif is set to kick off 2025 with a bang, launching an electrifying 8-man tournament titled ‘The Heist’ on November 8 at Connexin Live in Hull. The one-night event, streaming live on DAZN, will showcase a blend of undefeated prospects and seasoned domestic contenders in the super-middleweight (168lbs) division.

Designed to bring fans edge-of-the-seat action, the format includes three-round bouts—just nine minutes to make a statement—leaving little room for caution or error.

While names like Mark Dickinson, Germaine Brown, and Steed Woodhall bring valuable experience, the short, high-intensity rounds may favour the likes of explosive fighters such as James Osborne and Taz Nadeem. Also in contention are SA Smith, Ellis Steward, and Haaris Khan, who could all just as easily charge through to the final. At stake: a £25,000 prize, with further financial incentives promised throughout the night.

“This was always something we had in mind when speaking with DAZN,” said Asif in an interview with Boxing News, following the tournament announcement. “It felt right to close out the year with something exciting and unpredictable. I’ve always loved the tournament format as a fan—it’s nonstop action and full of drama.”

‘The Heist’ also marks a milestone, being touted as the first UK-based 8-man tournament to be broadcast on DAZN, setting it apart in an increasingly saturated fight calendar.

“We had about 25 fighters initially interested,” Asif revealed. “We narrowed it down based on who could make the weight and bring the right energy to the event. All eight see this as a major opportunity—not just for the prize money, but the exposure and career momentum it can create.”

Asif also hinted at additional performance-based incentives, including possible knockout bonuses, fight of the night awards, and even live matchup draws on DAZN. “Every win will boost their earnings—and by the final, the prize pot will be even bigger,” he added.

Now considered one of the fastest-rising promoters in the UK scene, Asif reflected on GBM’s unexpected growth since its launch. “When I got my promoter’s license, people said I wouldn’t last three months. But doubt only fuels me. To be in this sport is beyond a dream, and I’m here to build something lasting.”

With ‘The Heist’ blending unpredictability, financial stakes, and fan-friendly matchmaking, GBM Sports continues to carve out its space in the boxing landscape—one ambitious event at a time.