Sheeraz was asked about Canelo’s standing at #1 in The Ring rankings and said it can be justified based on his record, while also pointing to the next group of fighters pushing for opportunities. He said the division is moving toward a point where those contenders need to be matched against the top name.
“You could say he is because of what he’s done, but at the same time, you’ve got these young guns coming through like myself,” said Sheeraz to InsideRingShow, when asked about his thoughts on Canelo being ranked #1 at super middleweight with Ring Magazine.
“I think it’s time for him to give us the opportunity to prove ourselves and take over that #1 spot.”
Sheeraz said he had previously been linked to a fight with Canelo, including discussions about being next in line depending on the results at the time. He said those talks never materialized into a finalized bout.
“I’ve always had talks about being an opponent for him, but it’s never really happened,” said Sheeraz.
Canelo’s position at the top of the division remains tied to his past run at 168, though activity and matchmaking have become part of the discussion among contenders looking for title opportunities.
Sheeraz said his focus has shifted toward staying active and taking the fights available, rather than waiting on a single opponent.
“You can only fight who they put in front of you and who is available at the time,” said Hamzah.
Hamzah has not yet been matched with several of the leading names at 168, including Osleys Iglesias and Christian Mbilli. His recent results include a win over Edgar Berlanga and a draw with Carlos Adames, which drew mixed reactions. Fights against the current group of contenders would further define his position in the division.
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