The WBO has officially ordered Janibek Alimkhanuly to defend his WBO and IBF middleweight titles against unbeaten British contender Hamzah Sheeraz. The two camps now have 15 days to negotiate before the fight goes to a purse bid.
This order comes just days after Janibek knocked out Andrei Mikhailovich in the ninth round in Sydney, Australia, on October 4. In his typically dominant fashion, Janibek controlled the fight before delivering the knockout blow.
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However, the big question now is whether Sheeraz's team will take the fight. Sheeraz, standing tall at 6'3", has been on a knockout streak in the UK, but Janibek represents a massive step up in competition. Critics have questioned Sheeraz's readiness for such a powerful opponent, especially given some concerns about his chin and the level of his past opponents.
Sheeraz's last bout in September saw him knock out EBU middleweight champion Tyler Denny in two rounds, but many feel his team has been cautious in selecting opponents. After being staggered early in his fight against Austin Williams in June, Sheeraz’s ability to handle power has been questioned. A matchup against Janibek would provide answers, but it's a daunting challenge.
For Sheeraz, a fight with Janibek might offer the best possible scenario in a tough division. Facing Janibek, widely considered the top middleweight, would be a less risky reputation-wise than taking on the likes of WBC champion Carlos Adames or 41-year-old WBA titleholder Erislandy Lara. Now, it's up to Sheeraz and his team to decide whether to take on the challenge or continue building elsewhere.
Read more about Hamzah Sheeraz by clicking the link here.
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