British professional boxer Hamzah Sheeraz secured the WBO super middleweight world championship on Saturday, May 23, 2026, after defeating Alem Begic at the Pyramids of Giza, Egypt. The 26-year-old from Slough claimed the vacant title by knockout, marking a successful ascent to the 168-pound limit. Immediately following his victory, Sheeraz turned his attention to division focal point Canelo Alvarez, describing the Mexican star as a “GOAT” (Greatest of All Time) and expressing his desire for a future unification showdown.
The win at the historic Giza site represents the first world title for Sheeraz, who has now recorded consecutive stoppage victories since moving up from the middleweight division. While 39-year-old Alem Begic from Munich provided the immediate hurdle, Sheeraz and his management are already plotting a course toward the “face of boxing.” Despite his rising status, Sheeraz remained respectful of Alvarez’s legacy, stating that sharing a ring with the veteran would be an honor.
Manager Spencer Brown confirmed the team’s ambition shortly after the referee halted the contest in Egypt. Brown noted that the camp intends to “march on” toward a clash with Canelo Alvarez, emphasizing that it is the specific fight they want next. This victory solidifies Sheeraz’s position as a legitimate player in the super middleweight landscape, where Manny Robles believes Christian Mbilli will also provide a stern test for the established elite.
Hamzah Sheeraz eyes unified status at super middleweight
Following his knockout of Alem Begic, Hamzah Sheeraz outlined a confident timeline for his future in the 168-pound class. The unbeaten Briton stated his intention to collect all available belts in the division, aiming to become a unified champion within the next twelve months. He acknowledged the presence of “boxing royalty” ringside at the Pyramids of Giza, suggesting he is ready to follow those legendary footsteps by cleaning out the weight category.
The move to super middleweight appears to have preserved Sheeraz’s carrying power, which was on full display against the German veteran on Saturday night. His size and offensive output remained sharp at the higher weight, fueling internal belief that his style will translate well against the division’s top-tier names. This event serves as another milestone in the region’s boxing boom, following the historic clash at the Pyramids featuring Oleksandr Usyk.
Sheeraz’s transition has been calculated, and the WBO strap provides the necessary leverage to demand high-profile matchups. “I’ll fight anyone,” Sheeraz said after the win. He emphasized that he is simply beating whoever is placed in front of him as he climbs the ranks. By securing his first world title in North Africa, he has expanded his global profile ahead of what many hope will be a massive domestic or international return fight.
Potential unification path involving Canelo and Mbilli
The logistics for a Hamzah Sheeraz versus Canelo Alvarez fight may depend on upcoming results in Riyadh. Canelo Alvarez is currently scheduled to face Christian Mbilli on September 12, a bout that could determine the holder of the WBC title. If Alvarez successfully defends that position, a unification fight against the newly crowned WBO champion Sheeraz would become a logical next step for the Riyadh Season organizers.
Riyadh Season has previously demonstrated a willingness to pit undefeated rising contenders against the sport’s most established icons. With Sheeraz now holding a major belt, the commercial appeal of a champion-versus-champion clash increases significantly. This fits the recent trend where Terence Crawford has discussed Canelo Alvarez and his longevity, indicating the Mexican star remains the central prize for the world’s best fighters.
Sheeraz’s team is banking on his height and reach advantages to provide a new puzzle for the aging great. While Alvarez remains the far more recognizable global entity, Sheeraz’s performance at the Pyramids of Giza has forced his name into the mandatory conversation. The British fighter reiterated that he would “definitely be getting the win” if granted the opportunity to share the ring with the man he respects so highly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where was the Hamzah Sheeraz vs Alem Begic fight held?
The WBO super middleweight world title fight took place at the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt on Saturday, May 23, 2026. This historic location hosted the event where Hamzah Sheeraz secured his first world championship by defeating 39-year-old German boxer Alem Begic.
Who does Hamzah Sheeraz want to fight next?
Following his victory, Hamzah Sheeraz and his manager Spencer Brown both expressed a clear desire to face Canelo Alvarez. Sheeraz described Alvarez as a “GOAT” (Greatest of All Time) and stated that his goal is to become a unified champion at 168 pounds by this time next year.
What title did Hamzah Sheeraz win in Egypt?
Hamzah Sheeraz won the vacant WBO Super Middleweight World Championship. He secured the belt by knockout against Alem Begic, marking a successful step up in weight after previously competing in the 160-pound middleweight division.
