WBO orders purse bid for Sheeraz vs. Alimkhanuly title fight

The WBO has ordered a purse bid for Hamzah Sheeraz’s super middleweight title defense against Janibek Alimkhanuly after promoters failed to reach an agreement during the prescribed negotiation period.

WBO President Gustavo Olivieri confirmed that the bidding proceedings are scheduled for Wednesday, September 16, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. AST at the sanctioning body’s headquarters in San Juan, Puerto Rico. The outcome of the bid will determine which promoter—Queensberry Promotions or Top Rank—controls the fight's location, financial terms, and broadcast distribution.

While Queensberry has invested heavily in Sheeraz, Top Rank is expected to compete aggressively to secure promotional control for Alimkhanuly. Winning the bid does not guarantee the fight will occur, as Sheeraz maintains the option to vacate the championship if the resulting terms are unfavorable.