Hearn turns to Hamzah Sheeraz as Anthony Joshua era winds down

Eddie Hearn has stepped up his defence of Hamzah Sheeraz as the British fighter approaches the final bout of his Queensberry contract, creating an apparent opening for Matchroom. The move comes while Anthony Joshua’s long-running role as the company’s biggest commercial attraction is nearing its end.

Hearn objected to the WBO ordering Sheeraz to meet Janibek Alimkhanuly. He argued that Janibek should not have moved straight back into a mandatory position after a failed drugs test. Hearn does not promote Sheeraz, and there is no evidence that the two have discussed a promotional agreement.

The timing is significant because Sheeraz has confirmed that only one contest remains on his Queensberry deal. He has described his relationship with Frank Warren’s company as positive, but plans to consider the available opportunities before choosing his next step. Remaining with Queensberry is still an option.

Matchroom has relied heavily on Joshua for more than a decade, with his fights generating major income for the company. A possible meeting with Tyson Fury could deliver one of the last very large paydays connected to Joshua, leaving Hearn in need of another British name who can attract sustained attention and revenue.

Sheeraz fits that profile in Hearn’s eyes. He is young, popular in Britain and physically imposing, while his career can still be shaped through promotion and carefully selected opponents. The company has used a similar approach with Ben Whittaker, another fighter viewed as having the qualities needed to become a major attraction.

Hearn’s complaint about Sheeraz’s treatment by the WBO also carries a complicated backdrop. Sheeraz received a high ranking at super middleweight after his disputed draw with WBC middleweight champion Carlos Adames, despite not winning that fight or first beating a ranked opponent in the division. Hearn did not publicly object to that rapid rise, but has spoken out once the ranking led to a mandatory challenge against Janibek, a dangerous opponent who could affect Sheeraz’s earning potential.