WBO Takes the Reigns on Demetrius Andrade v Janibek Alimkhanuly
3KingsBoxing has kept a close eye on the developments involving WBO world middleweight champion Demetrius “Boo Boo” Andrade (31-0, 19 KOs) and mandatory challenger Janibek “Qazak Style” Alimkhanuly (11-0, 7 KOs). The WBO ordered the match in November 2021. Then a purse bid was ordered in December 2021. The only thing left in the air was an official date of the purse bid.
LAYING DOWN THE LAW
That has now been resolved. WBO President Paco Valcarcel took to Twitter to announce that the purse bid will happen on January 14, at noon at the WBO Offices in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Andrade was looking to take on WBO number one ranked super middleweight Zack Parker for the WBO ‘interim’ 168 pound title. But apparently, Valceral has grown impatient with Andrade and decided to take the initiative.
THE INTENTIONS OF “BOO BOO”
On the surface, fans will surmise Andrade is hesitant to fight Alimkhanuly. But, is it a case of fear or that he wants more for himself? It’s known that the champ has long desired a big-money fight. He’s openly campaigned for a fight against WBC 160-pound world champ Jermall Charlo and IBF world middleweight champion Gennady Golovkin. At this point, he’s been unable to lure either man in the ring.
Andrade is also in hot pursuit of a showdown with undisputed world super middleweight champion Canelo Alvarez. His attempt to fight Parker was to put himself in a better position for a fight with Alvarez.
At the same time, it would be a mistake to overlook Alimkhanuly. A skilled and talented southpaw, “Qazak Style” is arguably the best fighter Andrade has faced since moving up 160. His promoters at Top Rank feel the mandatory challenger is a world champion in waiting. On paper, Andrade v Alimkhanuly shapes to be an excellent battle. Stay tuned to 3KingsBoxing for further developments.
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By: Michael Wilson Jr.
