Janibek Alimkhanuly's decision to move up to super middleweight is a bold move, but one that comes with significant challenges. At 33 years old, he's embarking on a new journey in a division that's already brimming with established contenders. The financial rewards are clear, but the path to those rewards is fraught with obstacles.
Alimkhanuly's move from middleweight to super middleweight presents an opportunity to secure bigger paydays, but it also means starting from scratch. His recent one-year suspension for a positive meldonium test further complicates matters, as he'll need to rebuild his reputation and standing in the division. The leading contenders at 168 pounds already have their sights set on title opportunities, making it difficult for Alimkhanuly to break into the top fights.
One potential target for Alimkhanuly is IBF champion Osleys Iglesias, a formidable puncher who presents a dangerous first major test. However, facing Iglesias immediately may be too risky for a fighter returning from a lengthy layoff. Alimkhanuly's performance against Denzel Bentley in 2022, where Bentley pushed him the full 12 rounds, raises questions about his ability to compete against the elite at 168 pounds.
The move to super middleweight also means missing out on fights against strong names like Carlos Adames and Yoenli Hernandez, which could have provided valuable insights into Alimkhanuly's capabilities. Instead, he's choosing to test himself against heavier opponents, which may lead to the biggest purse of his career but also carries the risk of further setbacks.
In my opinion, Alimkhanuly's decision to move up in weight is a strategic one, but it's a risky move. The financial upside is real, but the division's competitiveness and his recent suspension make it a challenging path to a title shot. It remains to be seen whether Alimkhanuly can navigate this new territory successfully and emerge as a force in the super middleweight division.
