WBO sanctions Pacheco–Sheeraz for Crawford’s former title

The World Boxing Organization (WBO) has officially sanctioned a fight between 26-year-old Briton Hamzah Sheeraz and 24-year-old American Diego Pacheco.

On the line will be the WBO world title at super middleweight (up to 76.2 kg), which became vacant after Terence Crawford announced his retirement from boxing.

Hamzah Sheeraz (22-0-1, 18 KOs) last fought in July against Edgar Berlanga, stopping him in the 5th round.

On 13 December, Diego Pacheco (25-0, 18 KOs) defeated Kevin Lele Sadjo by unanimous decision, having been knocked down in the 8th round.