Janibek Alimkhanuly caused WBA middleweight titleholder Erislandy Lara to become agitated this past Tuesday during their online press conference, stating that he doesn’t anticipate their unification bout on December 6th will present significant “difficulties” for him.
The two combatants engaged in conversation today regarding their scheduled 12-round co-feature attraction on the Isaac ‘Pitbull’ Cruz versus Lamont Roach fight card, to be broadcast on Amazon Prime PPV from the Frost Bank Center located in San Antonio, Texas. The primary card is slated to commence at 8:00 pm Eastern Time / 5:00 pm Pacific Time.
IBF and WBO 160-lb division champion Janibek (sporting a record of 17-0, with 12 victories achieved by knockout) conveyed his present-day eagerness to potentially face Terence Crawford should he elect to descend in weight class. He affirmed his readiness to confront Crawford.
Lara (holding a record of 31-3-3, with 19 KOs) adopted a more measured approach, informing the media that his entire focus is directed toward the imminent battle against Alimkhanuly, and that he is refraining from considering any future engagements beyond this one.
“Not a Difficult Fight” – Janibek
“Indeed, it promises to be a highly competitive encounter, and I shall be adequately prepared, as it garners considerable attention,” remarked unified middleweight titleholder Janibek Alimkhnuly during Tuesday’s digital press conference, in response to a query about his interest in facing Terence Crawford should he transition to the 160-pound weight category. “I foresee no substantial impediments in my fight against Lara,” Janibek conveyed concerning his impending match with Lara.
The 32-year-old Janibek possesses an advantage in both youth and recent activity relative to the 42-year-old Cuban, Lara, who is not only of advanced age but will also be emerging from a 15-month period of inactivity when he competes on December 6th. His most recent appearance occurred on September 14, 2024, against Danny Garcia.
Lara’s Warning for December 6
“If his perception is one of ease, he is destined for a profound revelation,” Erislandy Lara cautioned. “My concentration is exclusively on December 6th, as Janibek is anticipated to be a formidable adversary in his present form,” Lara stated when questioned about a hypothetical clash with Crawford.
Janibek’s characteristic demeanor involves a sense of self-assurance and a tendency to belittle his opponents. It should come as no surprise that he presumes victory over Lara, mirroring his approach to previous adversaries. Having amassed a record of 48-9 as an amateur, Janibek has demonstrated vulnerability, incurring defeats on multiple occasions, notably in the 2016 Olympic quarterfinals against Kamran Shahsuvarli.
“I cannot afford the extravagance of contemplating alternative scenarios. Consequently, we shall engage in combat on December 6th, exert our utmost efforts, and subsequently assess the ramifications,” Lara articulated, emphasizing his commitment to the present challenge posed by Janibek.
Studying Lara Since the Amateurs
“Throughout my career, both in the amateur and professional ranks, I have frequently encountered southpaw opponents. Even during my amateur days, I closely observed Lara in the professional sphere. I possess a comprehensive understanding of his capabilities and limitations,” Janibek stated.
