Asked about Canelo’s #1 ranking in The Ring, Sheeraz said it could be justified based on his record, while also pointing to the next batch of fighters pushing for opportunities. He said the division is moving to a point where those contenders have to be matched up against the top name.
“You can tell he is because of what he’s done, but at the same time you have these young guns coming through like me,” Sheeraz told InsideRingShow, when asked about his thoughts on Canelo’s #1 ranking 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 No. 1 spot.”
Sheeraz said he has previously been linked to a fight with Canelo, including discussions about next in line depending on the results at the time. He said those talks never materialized into a finalized game.
“I’ve always talked 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 previous run at 168, although activity and matchups have become part of the discussion among contenders looking for title opportunities.
Sheeraz said his focus has shifted to staying active and taking the available fights, rather than waiting for a single opponent.
“You can only fight who they put in front of you and who is available at that time,” Hamzah said.
Hamzah has not been matched by several of the top 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 will further determine his position in the division.
