With the shocking spectacle that turned out to be Oleksandr Usyk vs. Rico Verhoeven, Hamzah Sheeraz winning his first world title may have gone slightly under the radar this weekend.
Winning the vacant super-middleweight WBO world title proved a formality for the Londoner. He stopped Alem Begic in the second round of their bout with a composed and clinical display. However, the main-event involving Usyk dominated headlines after an unforgettable performance from the challenger.
Hamzah Sheeraz Wins His First World Title
Still, Sheeraz’s crowning moment should not be overlooked.
The world title was the final piece missing from Sheeraz’s rise through the ranks. Earlier in his career, he fell short in his first world title challenge at middleweight. Nevertheless, he earned a draw against the highly respected Carlos Adames.
Since moving up to 168lbs, Sheeraz looks stronger, sharper, and even more dangerous. His dominant knockout victory over Edgar Berlanga showed he belongs among the elite at super middleweight.
Hamzah Sheeraz Targets Boxing’s Biggest Names
Despite the move up in weight, Sheeraz remains an imposing figure in the ring. He looks capable of eventually campaigning at light heavyweight. For now, though, his focus appears fixed on one man: Canelo Álvarez.
Even after defeat to Terence Crawford, Canelo remains boxing’s biggest attraction. A showdown between the two would not only represent the biggest fight of Sheeraz’s career. It would represent an opportunity to stamp himself as the new king of British boxing.
At just 26 years old, Sheeraz has already built an impressive résumé. Victories over domestic names such as Bradley Skeete and Liam Williams helped establish his reputation. His dominant win over Austin Williams in Saudi Arabia announced him on the world stage.
Can Sheeraz Become the Face of British Boxing?
For all of his physical gifts, however, Sheeraz’s greatest strength may be his discipline. The softly spoken Londoner now follows instructions with complete focus and carries out game plans with precision.
While the humble Sheeraz acknowledges the excellent work former trainer Ricky Funez did to guide him up the ranks, teaming up with Andy Lee has elevated his concentration in the ring.
Hamzah Sheeraz no longer looks like a talented prospect.
Instead, he looks like a world champion entering his prime— and the face of British boxing.
