Fight now agreed for Hamzah Sheeraz’s vacated world title after mandatory controversy

A fight has been agreed between Janibek Alimkhanuly and Jacob Bank for the vacant WBO Super Middleweight World Championship. The vacancy arose after former champion Hamzah Sheeraz chose to vacate the belt rather than face mandatory challenger Alimkhanuly. WBO President Gustavo Olivieri confirmed both teams provided formal written notification that terms have been finalized for the title clash.

Sheeraz dropped the title following Queensberry Promotions winning the purse bid, expressing frustration over Alimkhanuly's prior failed drug test for meldonium. Alimkhanuly now attempts to secure a world title in a second division against Denmark's undefeated contender Bank, who holds a 20-0 record.