Hamzah Sheeraz believes Saturday night in Egypt could be his moment, as he challenges Alem Begic for the vacant WBO super middleweight title on the Usyk vs. Verhoeven undercard. Speaking at the final press conference in Giza, Sheeraz said: “This is what dreams are made of, with the help of Andy Lee, my team, let’s make history. I feel like the stars are aligned and it’s a meant-to-be moment.”
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Begic, unbeaten himself, showed respect but made clear he is not coming to play a supporting role. “Hamzah is a world class talent, a world class boxer and the future of boxing,” he said. “He will definitely be world champion one day - but from my side Saturday will be my moment to shine.”
The card also features Richard Torrez Jr. against Frank Sanchez in an IBF heavyweight eliminator. Torrez said he has been in camp since January and wants to prove himself against a skilled opponent. “In order to show your skill, you have to show that against someone skilful,” he said. Sanchez, who is looking to rebuild after defeat to Agit Kabayel, said his goal is simple: “Get back to my spot and be the first Cuban heavyweight champion.”*
At welterweight, Jack Catterall faces Shakhram Giyasov for the WBA title and a future path toward newly upgraded Super Champion Rolly Romero. Catterall said he has “worked too hard to be denied,” adding: “When it comes down to it, I’m better in all departments.” Giyasov fired back with confidence of his own: “I’ve been working eight years for this fight and I will do it.” Asked why Romero had not fought him yet, Giyasov kept it blunt: “I think he’s scared of me. He’s run, run, run.”
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