Boxing fans are raising eyebrows over what they’re calling irregularities in post-bout procedures following Hamzah Sheeraz’s knockout victory over Edgar Berlanga. The controversy centers around the handling of Sheeraz’s hand wraps after the bout, with observers questioning whether proper inspection protocols were followed.
According to viewers, standard procedure wasn’t adhered to when it came to examining Sheeraz’s hand wraps. “You’re supposed to cut off your hand wraps, and they’re supposed to check them,” explained one observer.
The concern stems from what appeared to be an incomplete inspection process. While commission officials were seen removing Sheeraz’s gloves, the subsequent examination of his hand wraps raised questions among those watching closely. “As soon as he did that, he hugged somebody else,” noted one viewer.
What’s particularly drawing attention is the condition of the wraps themselves after five rounds of intense action. Some observers found them suspiciously pristine, describing them as looking “a little too perfect after five rounds of fighting.” This observation has led to comparisons with past controversies in boxing history, including references to the infamous Antonio Margarito case.
Official boxing regulations are clear about post-bout procedures. According to established protocols, “boxers must wait until a commission inspector or an official examines and verifies the hand wraps after the fight.”
This requirement exists to “ensure no foul play, tampering, loaded wraps, hidden materials” and to “protect evidence if there’s a protest or appeal” while maintaining regulatory integrity of the bout.
The proper sequence should involve boxers remaining in their corner with gloves intact, allowing commission officials to observe the removal process, and waiting for inspectors to visually examine or cut off the hand wraps. In some cases, wraps are even bagged and preserved by the commission for further review.
The knockout itself has also drawn scrutiny in light of these procedural questions. Berlanga, who demonstrated considerable durability in a twelve-round encounter with Canelo Alvarez where he was dropped once but recovered to complete the distance, appeared unusually vulnerable to Sheeraz’s power shots.
Additional scrutiny has focused on Sheeraz’s post-bout behavior as well. Observers noted that while one handwrap was removed in the ring, the British retained the other wrap through interviews and photo sessions, eventually leaving the venue without publicly removing it.
Video footage also showed Sheeraz having apparent difficulty gripping a water bottle, holding it with just two fingers rather than his full hand.
However, Edgar Berlanga broke his silence on the handwrap allegations that have been circulating since his knockout loss to Hamzah Sheeraz. The Puerto Rican took to social media to address the speculation head-on, marking the first time he has directly stated his position on the matter.
“This past month, I’ve seen a lot of people talking about suspicious hand wraps and me. I agree 100%. That left hand wrap was suspicious,” Berlanga posted on his Instagram story. “I take my wins and losses humbly. God is the greatest, always and forever king. Shout out to all my fans and supporters. I love you guys. Ain’t never going to stop greatness. We be back soon, my people.”
Previously, he had posted messages saying “God is great. They know what they did” without explicitly naming what he believed had occurred.
Former professional boxer Antonio Tarver weighed in on the discussion, emphasizing the strict protocols in place: “Every-time I had my hands wrapped around in a big fight they always have a commission as well as an member of the opposite team witness and get verified and approved hint the big ass X!”
The most significant response came from Sheeraz’s own corner. His coach directly addressed the allegations, stating: “I am Hamzah’s coach, I wrapped his hands. The commission wouldn’t allow me to cut the second wrap off after the fight. Both the commission and Berlanga’s coach watched me wrap Hamzah’s hands and inspected all gauze and tape used.”
The boxing community’s reaction has been largely skeptical of Berlanga’s claims. Many observers have characterized the allegations as excuse-making following a disappointing performance. Comments from fans and professionals alike have suggested that Sheeraz’s knockout power was well-established before the bout.
While no formal complaints have been filed, the boxing community continues to debate what they witnessed.
