Janibek Alimkhanuly Challenges Canelo Alvarez Amid Packed
The boxing world is buzzing as WBO and IBF middleweight champion Janibek Alimkhanuly has publicly challenged Saul “Canelo” Alvarez, expressing his willingness to move between weight classes for a fight. Alimkhanuly, often dubbed the “most avoided fighter on the planet,” has made it clear that he is ready to step up to 168 pounds to face Alvarez, rather than focusing on becoming the undisputed champion at 160.
Speaking to Boxing Scene, Alimkhanuly stated, “I’m not looking for number twos. I’m trying to get number ones, like Canelo and the other guys. Since 160 is not a problem, I can go up, but I can go back down. I see no problems in terms of the period and in terms of capacities. I have enough capacity” (Seconds Out).
Alimkhanuly’s Upcoming Fight
Before any potential showdown with Alvarez, Alimkhanuly is set to defend his unified middleweight titles against France’s Anauel Ngamissengue in Astana on April 5. This will be his first title defense since capturing the IBF crown from Vincenzo Gualtieri in October 2023 (Seconds Out).
Alvarez’s Packed 2025 Schedule
Unfortunately for Alimkhanuly, Alvarez’s 2025 schedule is already packed. If all goes according to plan, Alvarez will then move straight into a September fight against Terence “Bud” Crawford (Seconds Out).
With Alvarez’s commitments already lined up, it remains to be seen whether he will entertain Alimkhanuly’s challenge. However, the Kazakh fighter’s determination and willingness to move between weight classes could make this an intriguing possibility for the future.
Would Alvarez take the fight? Boxing fans will be watching closely.
Sources
Tags: Boxing, Combat Sports
