British-Pakistani boxer Hamzah Sheeraz claimed his first WBO super-middleweight world title on Sunday after defeating Germany’s Alem Begic in Egypt with a second-round stoppage victory.
The 26-year-old made an aggressive start to the bout, immediately putting pressure on the 39-year-old opponent and landing powerful early shots.
A decisive left hook to the body eventually sent Begic to the canvas, and he was unable to beat the referee’s count, leading to a stoppage win, according to BBC Sport.
After the win was confirmed, Sheeraz fell into prostration in the ring before celebrating with his team. He also secured the vacant WBO belt previously held by retired champion Terence Crawford.
Speaking after the fight, he said he had capitalised on early momentum and urged other fighters in the 168-pound division to face him at the world level.
Sheeraz entered the fight following a strong run, including a stoppage win over Edgar Berlanga in New York and a European middleweight title victory over Tyler Denny at Wembley Stadium in 2024.
