The WBO-ordered vacant super middleweight title fight between Hamzah Sheeraz and Diego Pacheco will now be decided by purse bid after negotiations failed to reach an agreement within the allotted timeframe. WBO officials confirmed that the 20-day negotiation period expired without a deal, triggering formal purse bid proceedings, with details to be announced.
The bout was ordered on December 20, pairing the two highest-ranked WBO contenders at 168 pounds while Saul “Canelo” Alvarez remains sidelined following surgery. Queensberry Promotions represents Sheeraz, while Matchroom Boxing is handling Pacheco’s side, but discussions ultimately stalled despite early interest from all parties involved.
Sheeraz is currently one of the most in-demand fighters in the division. In addition to the WBO order, he has also been instructed to enter talks for a vacant WBC title fight against interim champion Christian Mbilli and remains highly ranked with the IBF.
Pacheco has committed fully to the WBO route. Although his 2025 campaign drew criticism after decision wins over Steven Nelson, Trevor McCumby, and Kevin Lele Sadjo, he remains firmly positioned among the world’s top super middleweights.
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