Who is Naseem 'Naz' Hamed?

Naseem 'Naz' Hamed was a British-Yemeni boxing champion who rose to global stardom, overcoming racism and Islamophobia in 1980s and 90s Britain.

What is the film 'Giant' about?

'Giant' is a film that portrays Naseem 'Naz' Hamed's rags-to-riches underdog tale, from his humble beginnings in Sheffield to becoming a world champion boxer.

Where will the film 'Giant' premiere?

'Giant' will have its Middle East and North Africa premiere at the 5th edition of the Red Sea Film Festival, which opens on December 4th, 2025.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / British-Yemeni Boxing Champ's Inspiring Rise to Global Stardom

British-Yemeni Boxing Champ's Inspiring Rise to Global Stardom

4 Nov

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Summary

'Giant' film portrays British-Yemeni boxer Naseem 'Naz' Hamed's journey
Hamed overcame racism and Islamophobia to become a global sporting icon
Film's premiere in the Middle East and North Africa region

British-Yemeni Boxing Champ's Inspiring Rise to Global Stardom

The 5th edition of the Red Sea Film Festival will open on December 4th, 2025 with the premiere of Rowan Athale's film 'Giant'. The movie tells the inspiring story of British-Yemeni boxing champion Naseem 'Naz' Hamed, played by Egyptian-British actor Amir El Masry.

The film portrays Hamed's journey from his humble beginnings in Sheffield to becoming a world champion boxer. It explores the unlikely and tender relationship between Hamed and his Irish boxing trainer Brendan Ingle, played by Pierce Brosnan. The film also highlights how Hamed faced down the abhorrent racism and Islamophobia that swept Britain in the 1980s and 90s to become a global sporting icon.

Faisal Baltyuor, CEO of the Red Sea Film Foundation, says the selection of 'Giant' as the opening film embodies an artistic celebration of regional talents who have established their presence on the global film scene. The film's premiere in the Middle East and North Africa region reaffirms that Arab cinema today stands as a powerful force in the global film landscape.