Following WBO’s order for negotiations—with a September 3 deadline looming—Sheeraz fired back at the decision, pointing out Alimkhanuly’s past meldonium suspension. For Sheeraz, this isn’t just about boxing politics; it’s a matter of principle.
“I need to discuss this with my team. What the WBO did backs you into a corner, and eventually, you start thinking like them. If I choose to vacate, it’s completely justified. I talk about morals all the time, and that’s what it comes down to—being a clean athlete and standing up for clean sport,” Sheeraz told Ariel Helwani.
With Alimkhanuly recently moving up to super middleweight after holding the WBO and IBF middleweight crowns, the clock is ticking on whether this fight happens or the title becomes vacant.
