Ex-boxing champion Naseem Hamed could be jailed

LONDON, May 12 (Reuters) Britain's ''Prince'' Naseem Hamed, a former WBO world featherweight boxing champion, could be jailed today for dangerous driving over a car crash that left another motorist seriously injured.

Hamed's Mercedes sports car collided head on with two other vehicles on a road in Sheffield not far from the boxer's home last May.

While Hamed escaped unharmed the driver of one of the other cars, 38-year-old Anthony Burgin, broke every bone in his body and has been forced to undergo numerous operations since the crash, newspapers reported.

Hamed, who was undefeated in 35 professional bouts until losing his World Boxing Organisation crown in 2001, pleaded guilty to dangerous driving at Sheffield Crown Court last month.

The judge granted him bail but warned the 32-year-old that he faced a possible jail term when he is sentenced today.

Hamed, who also held World Boxing Council and International Boxing Federation versions of the featherweight belt, was as famous for his flamboyant entrances to the boxing ring, as for his bold and unique combination of speed and power inside it.

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