Janibek Alimkhanuly's decision to move up to super middleweight is a bold move, but one that could pay off handsomely. With a one-year suspension behind him and a crowded division ahead, the Kazakh fighter is looking to make a splash at 168 pounds. While the financial rewards are clear, the path to a title shot is fraught with challenges.
Alimkhanuly's move to super middleweight is an attempt to capitalize on the bigger purses and more prominent names in the division. However, he'll have to navigate a field of established contenders, including the likes of Hamzah Sheeraz, Jaime Munguia, and Christian Mbilli. These fighters have their own title plans and mandatory obligations, making it difficult for Alimkhanuly to break into the top ranks.
One potential target for Alimkhanuly is IBF champion Osleys Iglesias, but this would be a risky first major test for the former middleweight. Iglesias has developed into one of the division's biggest punchers, and facing him would be a significant step up in competition.
Alimkhanuly's move also raises questions about his ability to compete at a higher weight class. His toughest performance as a middleweight came against Denzel Bentley in 2022, and he'll need to prove himself against the elite fighters waiting at 168.
While the move to super middleweight may lead to the biggest purse of his career, it also forces Alimkhanuly to rebuild his position from the ground up. Coming off a one-year suspension may make it harder to secure the marquee fights he's chasing.
In my opinion, Alimkhanuly's move to super middleweight is a calculated risk. While the financial rewards are clear, the path to a title shot is fraught with challenges. It remains to be seen if he'll be able to navigate the crowded division and establish himself as a force at 168 pounds. One thing is certain: Alimkhanuly's move is a bold statement, and it will be fascinating to see how it plays out.
