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Kazakhstan's middleweight boxing champion, Janibek Alimkhanuly, has received a significant decision from the World Boxing Organization (WBO) following a doping controversy. While suspended from competition for one year, Alimkhanuly will retain his championship titles.

Suspension and Future Fights

The one-year ban means Alimkhanuly cannot participate in professional or commercial bouts during this period. However, the WBO has permitted an interim championship fight to protect the rights of ranked contenders. The number one contender, Denzel Bentley, is set to face the second-ranked Andy Saavedra.

Mandatory Bout Upon Return

Upon the conclusion of his suspension, Alimkhanuly is mandated to face the interim champion in a unification bout. This fight will determine the undisputed middleweight champion. The WBO has stipulated that no intermediate fights are allowed before this mandatory showdown. Failure to comply with this requirement could result in further sanctions.

WBO's Reasoning

According to WBO President Gustavo Olivieri, the decision was unanimously made by the organization's championship committee. The suspension officially begins on December 2, 2025. The WBO plans to release a formal document detailing the full findings and requirements soon.

Background of the Doping Case

The doping issue came to light shortly before Alimkhanuly's scheduled fight for three titles on December 6. The WBO officially confirmed the presence of a prohibited substance in the Kazakh boxer's sample. A second hearing for the case took place on January 19, confirming the positive doping test. Alimkhanuly has been sidelined from all fights pending the completion of the investigation.

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