“I have to admit it would be nice to still get Canelo,” Sheeraz told The Ring. “If I become world champion on May 23, I will stand in the way of him becoming undisputed.”
Sheeraz recently said he still wants the Canelo fight and believes becoming champion could put him directly in line if Alvarez tries to regain titles when he returns.
The match with Begic is seen as a big opening for Sheeraz. Begic is 39 and far less established than other names in the division, making it a significant chance for Sheeraz to collect a belt and move into a much bigger commercial circuit.
Once titleholder status is attached to his name, Sheeraz becomes a more attractive option for big-event fans looking to host a high-profile return from Alvarez. He brings an undefeated record, British market value, size at 168 pounds, and a title that could be used in a bigger storyline.
It doesn’t guarantee the fight will happen next, but the route is clear. If Sheeraz wins in Egypt, he moves from contenders to championship affairs overnight.
For Sheeraz, May 23 may be less about winning a vacant belt and more about entering the biggest table in the division.
Alvarez is expected to return from elbow surgery later this year, and his next move will be closely watched across the division. With multiple belt holders in place, promoters now have several options, but a newly crowned Sheeraz will immediately enter that conversation if he handles Begic.
