Hamzah Sheeraz retains WBO crown with narrow win over Simon Zachenhuber

JEDDAH: Hamzah Sheeraz successfully retained his WBO super middleweight title after edging Germany's Simon Zachenhuber by majority decision on the undercard of Anthony Joshua's heavyweight return on Saturday.

The judges scored the contest 116-112 and 115-113 in favour of the unbeaten Briton, while the third official returned a 114-114 scorecard.

The result improved Sheeraz's professional record to 24 wins, no defeats and one draw, including 19 knockouts.

Zachenhuber proved far more resilient than expected, slipped to 29-2 with 18 stoppage victories after taking the fight the full 12 rounds.

Making the first defence of the title he claimed with a second-round knockout of Alem Begic in Egypt nine weeks ago, Sheeraz adopted an aggressive approach from the opening bell.

However, Zachenhuber's disciplined movement and cautious tactics prevented the champion from establishing sustained control.

The opening round served largely as a tactical battle, with both men measuring distance and limiting risks.

Sheeraz began investing in body shots during the second round, while Zachenhuber responded with a late right hook.

The challenger found success with a straight left in the third, although Sheeraz continued targeting the body with powerful uppercuts and hooks.

Between the fourth and sixth rounds, the British champion maintained steady pressure behind a high guard, attempting to wear down his opponent.

Despite controlling much of the action, Sheeraz struggled to break through Zachenhuber's disciplined defence, with the German surviving the early exchanges and remaining competitive throughout a contest that never fully ignited.

While the victory ensured Sheeraz retained his world title, the close scorecards highlighted the stern challenge posed by the determined challenger.