In a surprising turn of events, Hamzah Sheeraz, initially slated to face Diego Pacheco for the vacant WBO world title, has been presented with a new challenge at 168lbs. This shift comes on the heels of Terence Crawford’s retirement, which left the super-middleweight division in a state of flux. Crawford, a three-division undisputed champion, vacated all four major super-middleweight belts, setting the stage for a new era in the division.
The boxing world is still reeling from Crawford’s sudden departure. Errol Spence Jr., a former welterweight champion, recently shared his thoughts on Crawford’s retirement, expressing that while it was unexpected for some, it was a move that many great fighters struggle to make. Spence applauded Crawford’s decision, highlighting the rarity of a champion stepping away at the peak of their career.
Crawford’s rationale behind his retirement was clear and concise. After being named Fighter of the Year by Ring Magazine, he stated, “There is nothing else left for me to accomplish in the sport of boxing.” This sentiment echoes the feelings of many champions who have reached the pinnacle of their careers. Crawford’s last fight, a unanimous decision victory over Saul Alvarez in September 2025, solidified his legacy as an undisputed super middleweight champion.
Interestingly, Crawford revealed that the rigors of training camp took a greater toll on his body than the actual fights. “My body wears out and breaks down much more in training camp than in the fight itself,” he shared in an interview. This insight provides a glimpse into the intense preparation that goes into each bout, often unseen by the public.
As Sheeraz prepares for his new challenge, the boxing community is abuzz with speculation and excitement. The vacancy left by Crawford has opened doors for new contenders to step up and make their mark. Sheeraz’s bout against the undefeated Begic promises to be a thrilling encounter, as both fighters vie for the prestigious title once held by Crawford.
In other news, the super-welterweight division is heating up with potential match-ups and controversies. IBF champion Josh Kelly and his trainer, Adam Booth, have been vocal about their desire for unification fights. Meanwhile, the rivalry between Dubois and Harper has reached a boiling point, adding to the drama and anticipation in the boxing world.
As the sport continues to evolve, the retirement of legends like Crawford paves the way for a new generation of fighters to rise and etch their names in boxing history. The upcoming bouts and potential match-ups promise to deliver excitement and drama, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.
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