JOHN RYDER
What a career he’s had, he dominated for so long at such a high level against good opposition. It was a pleasure to box on one of his undercards. Who will take over is a tough one. On the British scene we’ve got people like Felix Cash and Denzel Bentley who are all in line, especially Bentley after the Janibek performance. There’s also Eubank and Conor Benn who might meet at middleweight so there’s potential for Britain to lead the way at the weight for sure.
CHRIS LLOYD
There are a few guys who look pretty good. For raw talent, Ammo Williams. The hardest to beat, currently Alimkhanuly. But one man I’m quietly high on is Hamzah Sheeraz. He’s a 6ft 3ins wrecking ball with a steel jab, an elastic right hand and he puts his shots together with effortless rhythm. He’ll end up at 168 eventually, but at 24 he should have some good years ahead at middleweight. He already had huge potential, but the move to Ten Goose and Ricky Funez – who’s worked with tall, rangy punchers like Michael Nunn and Diego Corrales – was what made me think he could go all the way.
TUNDE AJAYI
Like most divisions at the moment, until the fighters fight each and challenge themselves it’s going to be extremely hard to tell. Obviously the stand out right now is Janibek but I really like the look of Carlos Adames and obviously we can’t forget undefeated Jermall Charlo. You also have Austin Williams hanging around there although I’m not sure of his ability to mentally hang with the tops boys though.
ANDY LEE
There’s not a lot coming through at middleweight, it’s quite open. Chris Eubank is highly ranked and I liked the improvements he showed in beating Liam Smith. A bit earlier on in his career, there’s Aaron McKenna who is one to watch out for. On the world stage, Janibek Alimkhanuly is probably the best and I think he will clean up the division given the chance. I also like the look of American southpaw Elijah Garcia. He’s very good and is a sharp puncher so definitely one to watch.
