Bob Arum, the promoter of IBF/WBO middleweight champion Janibek Alimkhanuly, is aiming to arrange unification fights between Alimkhanuly and the other belt-holders in the 160-pound division. Arum’s hopes are pinned on Alimkhanuly emerging victorious in his upcoming match against challenger Andrei Mikhailovich on July 13th at the Pearl Concert Theater at Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas.
Arum envisions matching Alimkhanuly against WBC champion Carlos Adames and WBA champion Erislandy Lara to unify the belts at middleweight. By achieving undisputed champion status at 160, the 31-year-old Alimkhanuly would significantly boost his popularity in the boxing world.
In addition to the unification fights, Arum is also considering potential matchups against British fighters Hamzah Sheeraz and Chris Eubank Jr. The prospect of facing Sheeraz poses a significant challenge for Alimkhanuly due to his size, which resembles that of a super middleweight, and his immense power, akin to a light heavyweight. Sheeraz’s unique combination of size and power makes him a formidable opponent for Alimkhanuly.
Difficulty in Securing Opponents
Despite Alimkhanuly’s talent and success in the ring, Arum acknowledges the challenges in finding suitable opponents for him. While some champions may be hesitant to face Alimkhanuly, Arum remains optimistic about the potential for blockbuster fights with middleweight champions like Adames and Lara, as well as British stars such as Eubank and Sheeraz. Arum is confident that there are plenty of viable opponents for Alimkhanuly in the middleweight division.
Arum highlights the importance of securing the right opponents for Alimkhanuly in order to elevate his profile and popularity within the sport. He emphasizes that past great middleweights have benefited from facing top competition, a factor that has contributed to their success and recognition in the boxing world. Arum believes that by carefully selecting Alimkhanuly’s opponents and arranging high-profile fights, they can overcome any obstacles hindering his rise to stardom in the middleweight division.