The WBO has ordered super middleweight champion Hamzah Sheeraz to defend his title against mandatory challenger Janibek Alimkhanuly. The decision drew criticism over Janibek’s fast-track ranking despite serving a drug ban, while Sheeraz faces a formidable initial title defence.
The sanctioning body raised eyebrows across the sport by elevating Janibek to the number two spot at 168 pounds following a 12-month suspension for a positive drug test. Former world champion Spencer Oliver condemned the decision during a talkSPORT panel debate.
He stated: “He’s taking performance-enhancing drugs, gets stripped of his title, gets a ban, and then gets put by the same sanctioning body…in the weight division above as a mandatory challenger,” before adding, “He’s getting rewarded for actually taking performance-enhancing drugs.”
However, scrutiny regarding favourable paths from the WBO applies to both fighters. Sheeraz moved up to super middleweight following a controversial 12-round draw against WBC middleweight champion Carlos Adames in February 2025. After defeating Edgar Berlanga in July 2025 by fifth-round stoppage, Sheeraz secured the vacant WBO super middleweight title against Alem Begic in only his second contest in the division. Pundits insisted that Janibek ought to “work your way up like most people have to.” but Sheeraz experienced a similarly swift progression without facing established contenders at 168 pounds.
Janibek now presents a distinct threat to the reigning champion.
The Kazakh southpaw carries stoppage power in both hands, backed by sharp technical skills and deep amateur credentials. In contrast, Sheeraz has shown defensive habits that can be exploited. When pressured with sustained combinations, Sheeraz frequently retreats into a high guard. Carlos Adames achieved notable success using that tactic, while Austin Williams and Simon Zachenhuber also managed to expose those defensive lapses during periods of their respective bouts.
Promoter Queensberry matched Sheeraz effectively throughout his development. However, Janibek represents a higher caliber of opponent than the champion has previously encountered. Sheeraz now faces three distinct choices: seek a sanctioning exception, negotiate a step-aside deal, or vacate the WBO belt. At 33 years old, Janibek has minimal reason to accept a low step-aside offer. Defeating Sheeraz delivers a world title in a second weight class and elevates his standing in the division.
