The World Boxing Organization (WBO) has set the date for the official purse bid for the mandatory middleweight title fight between champion Janibek Alimkhanuly and undefeated challenger Hamzah Sheeraz.
The WBO’s decision comes after failed negotiations between Queensberry Promotions and Top Rank. Both promoters were unable to reach a prior agreement for this highly anticipated championship fight.
Gustavo Olivieri, president of the WBO, stated that all attempts to reach a consensus between both fighters’ teams have been exhausted.
The WBO has scheduled the official purse bid for November 18.
British promoter Frank Warren had previously hinted that Hamzah Sheeraz would be seeking a world title shot by February. Initially, it was not confirmed which champion Sheeraz would face, though the name Carlos Adames was mentioned.
However, with the purse bid now set, it appears that Hamzah Sheeraz will ultimately take on Janibek Alimkhanuly.
Hamzah Sheeraz, 25, comes into this fight with an undefeated record of 21 wins, no draws, and no losses. The British fighter has stood out for his knockout power and technical skill in the ring.
His last fight was on September 21, 2024, when he secured a technical knockout victory against Tyler Denny in London, UK. Sheeraz dominated the bout from the first round and finished his opponent in the second, showcasing his impressive form.
On the other hand, Janibek Alimkhanuly, the current WBO and IBF middleweight champion, also enters the matchup unbeaten, with a record of 16-0-0. The Kazakh boxer has proven to be a well-rounded fighter, with a blend of power and technique that makes him a tough opponent to beat.
His most recent fight was on October 4, 2024, against Andrei Mikhailovich in Pyrmont, Australia. Alimkhanuly won by technical knockout in the ninth round, demonstrating his endurance and ability to control the fight until the end.
It is worth noting that Janibek Alimkhanuly has yet to make a mandatory defense of any of his world titles. This adds an extra layer of pressure for the champion, who will look to maintain his reign against a young and hungry challenger like Hamzah Sheeraz.
The November 18 purse bid is expected to determine the financial and logistical terms of the fight, including the purse split and the promoter in charge.
🚨 JANIBEK-SHEERAZ PURSE BID NOV. 18
The WBO has now set a November 18 purse bid date for their ordered Middleweight mandatory bout between champion Janibek Alimkhanuly and challenger Hamzah Sheeraz. pic.twitter.com/GM3jlBsFJM
— EverythingBoxing (@EverythingBoxi2) November 10, 2024
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