Alimkhanuly Staying At 160: “I Have Unfinished Business Here!”

Janibek Alimkhanuly Opts to Dig His Heels In At 160

Sometimes, a fighter’s greatest impediment is their stubbornness and refusal to accept what seems to be the obvious. That appears to be the case for Janibek ”Qazaq Style” Alimkhanuly (15-0, 10 KOs) with his insistence on continuing to campaign as a middleweight.

NOT GOING ANYWHERE

Alimkhanuly is the reigning unified champion at 160. But he had to withdraw from an upcoming July 13 title defense against Andrei Mikhailovich after feinting while trying to make weight. The champion was hospitalized and treated for severe dehydration.

The news sparked a conversation in the boxing community that it’s time for Qazaq Style to move up to super middleweight. But the champion is nixing that notion. The 31-year-old went to social media to state that he fully intends to stay at 160.

BULL-HEADED TO A FAULT

There’s also this reality. Middleweight is currently one of the weaker divisions in the sport. The southpaw from Kazakhstan would get more coverage and attention by seeking a battle with the reigning undisputed super middleweight Saul “Canelo” Alvarez. Canelo is someone Alimkhanuly has previously expressed an interest in fighting. Another intriguing fight at 168 would be a contest between Alimkhanuly and two-time super middleweight champion David Benavidez.

Alimkhanuly’s goal may be to become the undisputed middleweight champion. But how much respect would he receive should he attain that goal?

It’s becoming clear that Alimkhanuly is having issues making middleweight. Passing out while trying to make 160 is his body telling him to move up in weight. He should take note before his body betrays him in the ring. Now seems like the perfect time for him to take the appropriate action and jump to super middleweight.

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