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The World Boxing Organization (WBO) has decided to allow Kazakhstani boxer Janibek Alimkhanuly to retain his championship title, but with specific conditions attached. This decision comes after a period of uncertainty regarding his championship status.

Immediate Title Defense Mandated

According to Merey Akshalov, the Secretary General of the Kazakhstan Boxing Federation, the WBO has permitted Alimkhanuly to keep his belt. However, the organization has mandated that he must defend his title without any interim fights. This means his next bout must be a direct defense of the championship he currently holds.

Suspension and Appeal

Alimkhanuly has been suspended from competitive boxing until December 2026. His team is actively working to reduce this suspension period. The International Boxing Federation (IBF) had previously stripped Alimkhanuly of his middleweight title following a doping controversy.

WBO's Differentiated Stance

Despite the doping issues that led to the IBF belt being revoked, the WBO has taken a different approach. The organization has granted Alimkhanuly the opportunity to retain his title, even with a year-long suspension looming.

This development places significant pressure on Alimkhanuly and his team to navigate the WBO's requirements while addressing his suspension. The boxer's ability to meet these conditions will determine the future of his championship reign.

This information was reported by the Infohub.kz news agency.