Hamzah Sheeraz Targets Chris Eubank Jr. After Decisive Victory Over Ammo Williams
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – Following an electrifying eleventh-round knockout of Austin ‘Ammo’ Williams in a WBC middleweight title eliminator at the Kingdom Arena, Hamzah Sheeraz has his sights set on a domestic showdown with Chris Eubank Jr. This comes as a surprise to many, given that Sheeraz (20-0, 16 KOs) is eyeing a fighter in Eubank Jr. (33-3, 24 KOs) who has been inactive and is perceived to be past his prime. However, Sheeraz’s strategic choice underscores a blend of tactical foresight and calculated risk.
The Ammo Williams Encounter
Hamzah Sheeraz showcased both resilience and power in his fight against the previously undefeated Austin ‘Ammo’ Williams (16-1, 11 KOs). Despite a rocky start, where Williams hurt him twice, Sheeraz managed to turn the tide. “It was a good fight. Massive respect to Ammo Williams. He brought the fire, and I’m blessed. It was an honor to share the ring with him, to say the least,” Sheeraz stated to Secondsout. Reflecting on the first-round scare, Sheeraz admitted, “I underestimated his strength and power, and when he caught me [in the first round], I thought, ‘Oh s***, here we go.’ I thought I wobbled a bit, and I thought, ‘Alright, cool. I need to switch on a lot more here.’”
A Strategic Pivot
Despite his triumph, Sheeraz’s decision to target Eubank Jr. has raised eyebrows. After all, a logical next step would be to challenge for a world title against current WBC champion Carlos Adames or IBF/WBO champion Janibek Alimkhanuly. Yet, Sheeraz’s choice may reflect a strategic pivot based on his assessment of his own readiness. “The only way is up. That was a [WBC middleweight] world title eliminator. I upped my game. There’s a lot to work on. To be a great like Canelo, I’ve got a long way to go,” Sheeraz remarked, hinting at his awareness of areas needing improvement before stepping up to elite competition.
Eubank Jr. as a Calculated Move
Choosing Eubank Jr., who has been inactive and was recently knocked out by Liam Smith, appears to be a safer, albeit strategic, move for Sheeraz. Eubank Jr. still holds considerable name recognition and could provide a lucrative payday, should the fight materialize. Moreover, a victory over Eubank Jr. could serve as a stepping stone, enhancing Sheeraz’s profile without the immediate risk posed by the likes of Adames or Alimkhanuly.
Reflecting on the Fight
Sheeraz’s fight against Williams was marked by a need to adapt mid-bout. “I went back to my corner, and Ricky said, ‘Put your head back on your shoulders and do what we’ve been working on in the gym,’ and that’s what I done. Ricky said, ‘Put pressure on him, tire him out, and wear him down,’” Sheeraz recounted. Despite being hurt twice, Sheeraz managed to rally and secure a decisive victory. The fight culminated with a knockdown in the tenth round and a series of hard shots in the eleventh that led the referee to stop the contest.
A Call to Eubank Jr.
In the aftermath of his victory, Sheeraz made his ambitions clear, calling out Eubank Jr. for a September bout. “Chris Eubank Jr., that’s the fight I want. It would be an honor to share the ring with boxing royalty. Listen, let’s have it in September, let’s go,” Sheeraz declared. The potential matchup promises to be a significant event, particularly for British boxing fans, and could mark a pivotal moment in Sheeraz’s career.
Editor’s Insight
Sheeraz’s victory over Williams showcased his potential but also highlighted vulnerabilities that need addressing before he can claim a world title. His decision to call out Eubank Jr. suggests a strategic approach to career progression, balancing risk and reward while continuing to build his profile and skill set. This move not only positions Sheeraz for a lucrative fight but also provides him with a seasoned opponent against whom he can further hone his abilities.