Janibek Alimkhanuly now has a direct path to a belt at 168 pounds after the WBO confirmed terms are set for him to battle Jacob Bank for their vacant crown. Moving up provides Alimkhanuly another world title opportunity, while testing how well his middleweight firepower translates to the super middleweight division.
“DONE DEAL. Alimkhanuly vs. Bank for the vacant WBO Super Middleweight World Title!” the WBO announced on X.
The fight is reportedly headed to Copenhagen in December, although the WBO has yet to confirm the date, venue, or broadcaster.
Alimkhanuly holds the edge in championship experience, but he must still prove himself at the higher weight. Bank receives the chance to test himself against a bigger name and turn his first world title shot into the biggest win of his career.
If Bank can absorb Alimkhanuly’s power and maintain pressure, the former middleweight champion could face a difficult night. Alimkhanuly will need to rely on his jab and timing to control exchanges rather than allowing Bank to force a physical battle.
Bank has the opportunity to make Alimkhanuly fight for every round in this division. Defeating a hardened former middleweight champion would grant Bank immediate legitimacy, proving he has done more than simply claim an abandoned strap. A victory would also propel his name into the mix for major fights at 168 pounds.
Securing Copenhagen gives Bank genuine home-soil advantages. Fighting in front of his own supporters helps drive ticket sales and guarantees strong local backing, but a roaring crowd will not solve the tactical problems Alimkhanuly presents once the bell rings.
Hamzah Sheeraz vacated the WBO title rather than face Alimkhanuly in an ordered defense, opening the door for Bank to challenge a former unified middleweight champion for the belt.
The date and venue still await official confirmation. For Alimkhanuly, the fight tests whether he can replicate his middleweight success at 168 pounds. Bank aims to disrupt those plans and establish himself as champion.
