A single encounter in a high-profile London residence set Hamzah Sheeraz on course for boxing success.

The British fighter had stepped away from the ring after failing to reach the Commonwealth Youth championships and was working as an apprentice electrician when an assignment took him to Eden Hazard's residence.

Standing amid the impressive surroundings, the 27-year-old felt his drive return and returned to training within a fortnight, securing a contract with Frank Warren's Queensberry promotion on his 18th birthday.

Following his May victory for the WBO super-middleweight crown, Sheeraz prepares to make his first defense against Simon Zachenhuber on the Anthony Joshua undercard in Saudi Arabia this weekend.

Reflecting on that pivotal day, Sheeraz told BBC Sport: "I was working in Eden Hazard's apartment fixing his bulbs and sockets and my ego or goals and aspirations kicked in, so I went back to the gym."

"There was nothing lined up for me. It wasn't like I had such a good amateur career and it was going to kick off. I just wanted to go back to the gym and see what happened."

Within two weeks he was invited to spar professionals, performed well and traveled to Spain for training camps, leading to his signing with Warren through his coach Dominic Negus.

Sheeraz claimed his world title with a dominant second-round stoppage of Alem Begic in May and remains undefeated with a record of 23-0-1.

His next ambition is a clash with Saul "Canelo" Alvarez, whom he has admired since childhood.

"I'd love it. A lot of people hear me say it," Sheeraz said. "I'm under no illusion that he chooses who he fights because he's earned the right, let's be honest. Props to him."

"It'd be a pinch-me moment if I got to fight him. I've been watching this guy since I was a kid, trying to learn from him and now you get the opportunity to fight him. It goes back to the saying of when your idols become your rivals."

Sheeraz remains convinced his best days lie ahead. "I know that I'm here for a reason," he added. "My hard work has taken me this far. God has taken me this far. My team and family have taken me this far. I believe that my true calling has yet to come. I can feel it coming."