The WBO has ordered a purse bid for Hamzah Sheeraz’s super middleweight title defense against Janibek Alimkhanuly after Queensberry Promotions and Top Rank failed to reach a deal. The bidding takes place on 16 September 2026 in Puerto Rico.
WBO president Gustavo Olivieri confirmed the official decision on social media following the breakdown of private talks. He stated: “Please be advised that the WBO has received official confirmation from Queensberry Promotions and Top Rank that the parties have been unable to reach an agreement within the prescribed negotiation period. Accordingly, the WBO World Championship Committee will order purse bid proceedings, scheduled for Wednesday, September 16, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. (AST), at the WBO Main Offices in San Juan, Puerto Rico,”
Wednesday’s session will establish control over the fight’s location, purse split, and broadcasting rights. Queensberry has backed Sheeraz heavily throughout his career, whereas Top Rank aims to secure promotional advantage for Janibek. Neither promotional firm wants its fighter appearing on a competitor’s network. However, winning the auction does not ensure the contest takes place. Sheeraz retains the option to vacate the championship if the financial terms and promotional conditions do not offset the tactical risk involved.
Vacating the title brings consequences for both fighters.
Sheeraz recently retained his belt via majority decision against Simon Zachenhuber, yet he still requires a victory against a top-tier contender to solidify his standing at 168 pounds. Janibek provides that elite validation, though his southpaw style presents specific tactical problems. The challenger excels at stepping outside an opponent’s lead foot to cut off space, shifting angles once his target reaches the ropes. Sheeraz prefers an upright stance at range, relying on straight shots to maintain distance. To neutralize Janibek’s overhand left, Sheeraz must utilize lateral exits instead of retreating in straight lines. Conversely, Janibek faces questions regarding his adaptation to super middleweight, having moved up from middleweight with unproven durability at the higher weight class.
