The World Boxing Organization (WBO) has issued an order for current middleweight world champion, Janibek Alimkhanuly, to defend his title against British boxer, Liam Smith. The two parties have a 20-day deadline to agree on a deal before purse bids are called.

Alimkhanuly, a 29-year-old undefeated boxer from Kazakhstan, has an impressive record of 13 professional fights with no losses. On the other hand, Smith, a former light-middleweight champion from Liverpool, has 33 wins, three losses, and one draw to his name.

Smith was expected to have a rematch with Chris Eubank Jr, whom he defeated in their previous fight. Eubank Jr activated his rematch clause after losing to Smith by fourth-round stoppage at the AO Arena in Manchester. However, the WBO’s order has put the rematch on hold, and Smith must now face Alimkhanuly to defend his title.

Smith previously held the WBO light-middleweight championship from 2015 to 2016 before losing it to Mexican boxing superstar Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez. Alimkhanuly, on the other hand, was upgraded from interim champion to middleweight world champion in August 2022.

In November of the same year, Alimkhanuly defended his title against Briton Denzel Bentley and won by unanimous decision. The upcoming fight against Smith will be his first defense as the official middleweight world champion.

The WBO’s order has created excitement among boxing fans, as both fighters are known for their impressive skills and experience. The fight promises to be a thrilling showdown between two of the best boxers in their respective weight classes.