Hamzah Sheeraz vs. Diego Pacheco world title fight ordered by WBO

The WBO has ordered super middleweights Hamazh Sheeraz and Diego Pacheco to fight for the governing body's vacant world title at 168lbs. 

Following the news of Terence Crawford's retirement last week, all the world title belts at super middleweight are vacant. 

Sheeraz has already been ordered to face Christian Mbilli for the WBC's version of the super middleweight world title, but it appears there is a sense of urgency when it comes to the WBO's request. 

WBO president sets 20-day deadline for Sheeraz vs. Pacheco

Shortly after the news was made official, WBO president Gustavo Olivieri set a 20-day deadline for Sheeraz and Pacheco's team to reach a deal before going to purse bids. 

"Be advised the Championship Committee has ordered Sheeraz/Pacheco to fill the vacancy in the WBO 168lbs division," Olivieri posted on X. "Parties have 20-days to reach terms or purse bid is ordered."

Olivieri also tagged Sheeraz's promoter Frank Warren and Eddie Hearn, who represents Pacheco, in the post. 

With Sheeraz-Pacheco being a fight of particular interest to His Excellency Turki Alalshkih, there is a strong chance Riyadh Season could become involved in the negotiations and stage the fight during one of their events in 2026.

When did Sheeraz and Pacheco last fight? 

For Sheeraz, a clash with Pacheco would be just his second fight at super middleweight after he knocked out Edgar Berlanga in emphatic fashion in July. 

Pacheco, meanwhile, is slowly being built towards challenging for a world title. His unanimous decision win over Kevin Lele Sadjo earlier this month saw him knocked down in the eighth, but the American did not let this moment affect his game plan in what turned out to be a scrappy affair. 

With both men unbeaten and touted be future superstars within the sport, a Sheeraz-Pacheco fight for world honours is an exciting proposition.

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