The IBF and WBO middleweight champion, Janibek Alimkhanuly, is on the lookout for his next significant bout, eyeing a unification fight against the WBA champion, Erislandy Lara. Alimkhanuly, sporting an impressive professional record of 16 wins and no losses, with 11 of those victories coming from knockouts, has found himself frustrated with unsuccessful attempts to secure fights against prominent names like Hamzah Sheeraz, Chris Eubank Jr., and Carlos Adames, the WBC champion. The lack of enthusiasm from these fighters to engage with Alimkhanuly highlights the respect and fear he commands within the middleweight division; his unblemished record speaks volumes about his capabilities inside the ring.
At 41 years old, Erislandy Lara, who has a record of 31 wins, 3 losses, and 3 draws, is also navigating through the upper echelons of the middleweight scene while holding onto the WBA belt. Lara has been able to maintain his championship status by selecting less challenging opponents for his title defenses. This strategy of fighting softer competition has proven lucrative for him, providing substantial earnings without the high-risk confrontation that Alimkhanuly represents. The stakes are indeed high for Lara, as a potential loss to a rising star like Janibek would diminish his opportunities for future financial success and prestige.
For a matchup between Alimkhanuly and Lara to materialize, it would likely require the involvement of prominent financial backing. Turki Alalshikh has shown interest in such a high-stakes bout, suggesting it could be part of the Riyadh Season events. Without substantial monetary incentives, Lara might hesitate to put his belt on the line against someone as formidable as Alimkhanuly, who poses a significant threat with a knockout ratio that could end Lara’s run as champion almost overnight. The allure of financial stability may weigh heavier for Lara than the pursuit of glory, influencing his decision-making process around accepting such a risk-laden match.
The pressing reality for Lara is that age can be a significant disadvantage in the boxing ring. He will turn 42 next year, and the physical demands of facing a younger and more aggressive fighter like Alimkhanuly present a formidable obstacle. Lara’s recent matchups have not been considerably tough, leading to concerns that he may lack the resilience that is often required when stepping into the ring against elite competitors. His last meaningful fights against fighters like Brian Castano and Jarrett Hurd now seem like distant memories, raising questions about his current form and ability to handle the pressure of a unification bout.
As the middleweight division continues to evolve, the paths of Janibek Alimkhanuly and Erislandy Lara will certainly intersect if both parties are willing to step outside their comfort zones. For Alimkhanuly, claiming the WBA title can significantly elevate his career and legacy. For Lara, the risk of losing his title and the accompanying financial benefits must weigh heavily as he considers the possibility of fighting a fiercely talented opponent. Whether Lara decides to take that leap or remain in the shadows of safer bouts will ultimately shape the future of the middleweight landscape. But for Janibek, the desire for a showdown is undeniable, and the clock is ticking on Lara’s championship reign.