Boxing betting predictions: Zhanibek Alimkhanuly vs. Andrei Mikhailovich

ZHANIBEK Alimkhanuly travels to Sydney, Australia, on Friday to defend his IBF middleweight title against little-known challenger Andrei Mikhailovich. Alimkhanuly’s WBO belt will not be on the line.

Interestingly, the IBF operates a 10-pound rehydration clause, so Alimkhanuly will hope the weight issues that hindered the first attempt of this fight do not return. Arriving in Australia relatively late for the assignment, there are danger signs for the Kazakhstan fighter.

The champion is 15-0 (10 KOs) as a pro and has delivered some impressive finishes. Currently, the middleweight division lacks any big rivals with whom he can throw down.

Originating from Russia, Mikhailovich is now very much a New Zealander. After the original date was postponed, due to Alimkhanuly suffering the ill effects of a dramatic fight-week weight cut, Andrei came across as an engaging character speaking on the ESPN broadcast. Whether the 21-0 (13 KOs) challenger can actually fight is what matters on Friday night.

The 26-year-old has not fought anywhere near world level, but at least promoters No Limit Boxing have secured “home” advantage for their man after outbidding Top Rank to host the reschedule.

In April 2023, Mikhailovich had a slugfest with 16-0 Edisson Saltarin that saw him down heavily in the first round before knocking out Saltarin in the fifth. That does not bode well for facing a power puncher like ‘Qazaq Style’.

Alimkhanuly throws sharp hooks, with power and accuracy. Mikhailovich is fit and strong but his head offers an inviting target. Zhanibek should exploit those defensive shortcomings within the first half of the contest. And then, possible unifications or a move up in weight?