by El Reportero’s wire services
Middleweight titleholder Janibek Alimkhanuly didn’t hold back during a virtual press conference on Tuesday, claiming that his upcoming December 6 unification bout against Erislandy Lara “won’t be difficult.” The confident remarks quickly caught the attention of the Cuban veteran, adding extra tension ahead of their 12-round fight. The event will be part of the Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz vs. Lamont Roach card, streaming on Amazon Prime PPV from the Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, Texas.
Alimkhanuly (17-0, 12 KOs), who currently holds the IBF and WBO middleweight belts, said he feels stronger than ever and even expressed interest in facing Terence Crawford if the welterweight star decides to move up in weight. “I’ll be ready,” Janibek said.
Lara (31-3-3, 19 KOs), the WBA champion, did not take kindly to Janibek’s confidence. “If he thinks it’s going to be easy, he’s in for a big surprise,” Lara responded. The 42-year-old hasn’t fought since his victory over Danny Garcia in September 2024 but said he’s focused solely on the task at hand. “Right now, my only goal is December 6. I can’t think about anyone else,” he added.
At 32, Alimkhanuly holds an advantage in age and activity. Still, Lara’s experience, defensive skill, and ring IQ could pose challenges for the Kazakh southpaw. Many fighters have underestimated the crafty Cuban before—often to their regret.
Janibek said he has studied Lara for years and believes he understands his tendencies. “I watched him even when I was still an amateur,” he explained. “I know what he can do and what he can’t.”
The December showdown represents a battle between youth and experience, with both men seeking to unify the middleweight division. Alimkhanuly hopes to cement his dominance, while Lara aims to prove that age and wisdom can still conquer raw power.
Fans can expect an intense, strategic fight when these two champions meet in San Antonio.
— With reports by Eddy Pronishev
