HAMZAH Sheeraz is reportedly gearing up for an intriguing super-middleweight clash with Edgar Berlanga, featuring on the undercard of Shakur Stevenson vs William Zepeda.
According to boxing journalist Mike Coppinger, the event, headlined by Stevenson’s third defence of his WBC world lightweight title, will be staged in New York on July 12.
While an official announcement regarding the venue is yet to emerge, Coppinger’s employer has nonetheless confirmed its UFC-style ‘Ring Magazine 3’ card via social media.
The main event, of course, was agreed shortly after Stevenson, 23-0 (11 KOs), and Ring Magazine chief Turki Alalshikh squashed their very public differences, allowing mandatory challenger Zepeda, 33-0 (27 KOs), to secure his golden opportunity.
As for Sheeraz, 21-0-1 (17 KOs), the former world middleweight title challenger, now training under the tutelage of esteemed coach Andy Lee, looks to kickstart his 168lb campaign with a bang.
After trudging towards a draw against WBC titlist Carlos Adames in February, the towering 25-year-old must prove that he belongs at world level.
Standing in his way, however, is Berlanga, 23-1 (18 KOs), who has bounced back with just one stoppage victory since his unanimous decision defeat to super-middleweight king Canelo Alvarez last year.
Elsewhere on the card, an appealing super-lightweight matchup between WBC champion Alberto Puello and former IBF titlist Subriel Matias should deliver fireworks, with both operators possessing fan-friendly styles.
Not only that but David Morrell, too, looks set to return to action against unbeaten light-heavyweight puncher Imam Khataev.
With the Cuban looking to restore his momentum after losing to David Benavidez in February, Khataev should introduce him to a stern but winnable comeback fight.
