Hamzah Sheeraz unloaded on the WBO during his interview with Ariel Helwani, giving Janibek Alimkhanuly plenty of reason to believe the ordered fight is already troubling him.
During the interview, Sheeraz called the organization’s handling of Janibek “a joke” and “corrupt.” His anger focused on the reduction of Janibek’s suspension following a positive test for meldonium and the decision to place him in position for an immediate fight at super middleweight.
The financial reward does not come close to matching the risk. Janibek presents genuine danger but lacks the commercial appeal of the division’s largest names. Losing to him would damage Sheeraz’s earning potential before he reaches the fights his team has been building toward.
Pressed on his intentions, Sheeraz would not say if he planned to fight Janibek. Helwani mentioned an exemption, a step-aside deal, relinquishing the belt or accepting the order, while Sheeraz added a unification as another possibility. He said the decision would come after discussions with his team.
The unification route would likely depend on Queensberry securing Canelo Alvarez if he defeats Christian Mbilli. Jaime Munguia would be the next realistic option, but neither fight is guaranteed, leaving Janibek as the immediate problem.
A reply arrived on X shortly after the interview aired.
“Why doesn’t he just say, ‘Let’s fight!’? This is a sport! If you call yourself a champion, then prove it. Step up, fight the best, and show everyone what you’re really made of. Don’t sit on a podcast whining and crying about it get in the ring and fight!”
Sheeraz insisted that he wanted to beat Janibek but stopped short of accepting the fight. That was all Janibek needed to treat the interview as an attempt to avoid him.
Facing Janibek still brings considerable risk, even if Iglesias would be the more dangerous fight. If his middleweight form carries to 168 pounds, Janibek can beat Sheeraz in a grueling contest that offers little financial reward. Sheeraz’s anger at the order suggests he knows exactly what has been placed in front of him.
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Last Updated on 2026/08/19 at 2:53 AM
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