Raheem enjoyed a stellar amateur career, which included a 213–4 record, 15–1 against international competition, and a spot in the 1996 U.S. Olympic team.
Raheem's next big fight was against legendary Mexican Erik Morales on September 10, 2005, in the Staples Center in Los Angeles.
Raheem surprised everyone by dominating the fight from the beginning by using excellent footwork and body movement, and never let Morales find his rhythm.
Raheem won by unanimous decision, winning Ring Magazine upset of the year for 2005, and cemented himself as a lightweight contender.
On April 29, 2006, Zahir Raheem lost by split decision against Acelino Freitas for the recently vacated WBO Lightweight title.