Adames and Zachenhuber approached Sheeraz in different ways, yet both achieved success by applying constant pressure. Neither man spent much time backing away. Both absorbed punches to close the distance, forcing exchanges while keeping Sheeraz from settling behind his long jab. Instead of controlling the pace with his size and reach, Sheeraz spent long stretches reacting.
That presents a major concern at 168 pounds because the division contains numerous fighters who thrive under those exact conditions.
Christian Mbilli relentlessly marches forward. Kevin Lele Sadjo brings constant pressure. Jaime Munguia keeps throwing punches until opponents break. Lester Martinez keeps pressing forward and makes opponents fight at close range. Osleys Iglesias possesses enough power to make every exchange dangerous. Diego Pacheco controls distance behind his jab and steadily applies pressure. Even Saul Canelo Alvarez, despite being late in his career, excels at cutting off the ring and forcing opponents to fight his fight.
Becoming undisputed is never about defeating a single champion. It requires beating a series of elite fighters across contrasting styles. Pressure fighters, punchers, technicians and counterpunchers all present different challenges. The deeper the division, the harder that task becomes.
The Berlanga knockout looks more like a favorable stylistic matchup than proof that every weakness vanished. Berlanga gave Sheeraz room to establish his rhythm and capitalize on defensive mistakes. Adames and Zachenhuber denied him that comfort, forcing rounds that were far more competitive than many expected.
A single tough fight does not define a career. Sheeraz still possesses the size, skill and punching power to win a world title. His performances against Adames and Zachenhuber, however, show that aggressive opponents who refuse to surrender ground present a difficult style for him to solve.
Until Sheeraz answers that question against top opposition, talk of cleaning out the super middleweight division appears premature. Winning one championship is difficult enough. Sweeping through one of boxing’s deepest divisions is an entirely different challenge.
