Hamzah Sheeraz plays It cool on Canelo ‘fire fight’

The rise of Hamzah Sheeraz has been a rapid one, which reached its next stage when he defeated Alem Begic to become the WBA super middleweight champion. The Brit has previously been linked with fighting former undisputed 168-pound champion Canelo Alvarez. Speaking on a recent Ring Magazine podcast with Rick Reeno, the WBA champ discussed a potential matchup with Canelo.

Hamzah Sheeraz addresses potential Canelo showdown

Sheeraz (24-0-1, 19 KOs) vs Canelo (63-3-2, 39 KOs) is a fight that has been rumoured for some time. It remains to be seen if the two will clash in a potential unification, should Canelo defeat Christian Mbilli to win the WBC crown, and should Sheeraz move forward and face Janibek Alimkhanuly (17-0, 12 KOs), an opponent the WBO recently ordered him to face. The organisation has requested both teams enter into negotiations.

When asked about a potential showdown with Canelo Alvarez, Sheeraz said:

“Listen, I’ve gotta keep doing my thing. Keep winning, keep putting on big performances, moving forward, and he’s gotta do the same.

“He’s a legend of the sport. If the fight happens, it happens. If it doesn’t, it doesn’t. I’ll continue to just be the best version of myself that I could possibly be. It’d be an absolute honour to share the ring with him. And I think it’d be a fire fight for sure.”

The Big Fight Weekend verdict

There are definitely some hurdles to overcome before a Sheeraz-Canelo fight can become a reality. Mbilli will push Alvarez, who will need to be at his best to deal with him, which won’t be easier now that he’s 36.

Sheeraz has looked brilliant at points during his career, but looked below-par last time out, defeating Simon Zachenhuber by majority decision. He was ruthless against Edgar Berlanga, proving he does raise his performance against better opposition. Canelo at his best has elite head movement and is an exceptional body puncher. Sheeraz would need to utilise his reach advantage, using the long, sharp jab. It would be a clash of styles, but Sheeraz has the tools to beat Canelo. What does the Mexican have left? We will find out a lot on October 31 against Mbilli, and whether Sheeraz is even a realistic option for the legendary Mexican.

Other Boxing Content:

Featured Image Credit:

Mark Robinson/Goldstar Promotions