Hamzah Sheeraz has vacated his European middleweight title to pursue a world title shot in 2024. After a strong win in September, he’s a top contender for the WBO and WBC titles. His promoter confirmed Denzel Bentley and Brad Pauls will likely fight for the vacant title. Sheeraz is targeting a world title fight, possibly in February.

Hamzah Sheeraz Vacates European Title to Pursue World Championship Dream in 2024

Hamzah Sheeraz has officially vacated his European middleweight title, setting his sights on a shot at a world title fight early next year, likely on February 22. After stopping Tyler Denny on the Dubois–Joshua undercard in September, the 25-year-old fighter is poised to return to the ring on another high-profile event when Daniel Dubois defends his title again. Sheeraz is the current top contender for both the WBO and WBC middleweight titles, held by Janibek Alimkhanuly and Carlos Adames. While Alimkhanuly is seen as the division’s top fighter, Sheeraz is making waves as a serious challenger. 

Frank Warren, Sheeraz’s promoter, confirmed that the vacant European title will likely go to Denzel Bentley and Brad Pauls, who are set to battle it out at Wembley Arena on December 7. Originally, the title was up for a purse bid between Bentley and Sheeraz, but with Sheeraz focused on the world title, Pauls was slotted in as Bentley’s new opponent.

Hamzah Sheeraz Targets February World Title Shot After Dominant Year in Boxing

Warren is optimistic about Sheeraz’s future, hinting that news on the world title fight location could arrive as early as next week. “Hamzah’s had a brilliant year, and he’s got a lot to look forward to,” Warren said. He also confirmed that talks are in place for Dubois‘ next fight, with four possible opponents, putting the possibility of a Dubois–Joshua rematch to rest.

Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, and Warren both agree a Dubois–Joshua rematch isn’t in the cards for now, with Joshua focused on other options. Warren suggested that Joshua may be eyeing a shot at Tyson Fury, but noted that any Fury–Joshua fight would hinge on both fighters winning their next bouts—especially Fury, who is set to face Usyk in a huge unification bout on December 21. 

For Sheeraz, the stage is set. With strong performances and determination, he’s aiming to make 2024 his breakout year on the world stage.