Janibek Tells Hamzah Sheeraz To Vacate

That request shows Queensberry has remained at the table despite Sheeraz’s criticism of the order. He questioned why the WBO installed Janibek as mandatory after the Kazakh tested positive for meldonium before his canceled bout with Erislandy Lara.

Frank Warren must decide how much risk Queensberry wants for one of its most valuable fighters. Sheeraz has domestic options capable of producing strong crowds without exposing him to a southpaw as accomplished or dangerous as Janibek.

Giving up the belt would protect those opportunities, but it would also make Sheeraz look unwilling to face the challenger selected by the WBO. Entering a purse bid brings another concern because Queensberry may lose promotional control of the event.

The challenger, Janibek, understands that calculation. His message is designed to make another extension politically uncomfortable for the champion.

Sheeraz owns clear height and reach advantages at 168 pounds, along with a heavy jab that can keep shorter opponents outside. Janibek will need to slip the lead hand, close distance without following Sheeraz in straight lines, and create openings for his counter left.

That is where the matchup becomes a problem for Sheeraz. Janibek brings an extensive amateur background and is comfortable finding punches from the southpaw position. Sheeraz made defensive mistakes during his narrow victory over Simon Zachenhuber that Janibek is equipped to punish.

A layoff dating to April 2025 has increased the challenger’s frustration over his failure to land a career defining opponent. His ability presents a serious threat, while his limited commercial pull has made him easy for bigger names to bypass. That explains why he is using social media to remove any quiet escape route.

Saudi financial backing may be one way to satisfy both promoters if money is preventing a deal. Without an outside buyer, Thursday should send the bout to a purse bid and force Sheeraz’s camp to reveal how badly it wants to retain the belt.