Canelo Álvarez has a new challenger ready to strike after loss to Terence Crawford

Saúl ‘Canelo’ Álvarez is taking a break following his September 13 loss to Terence Crawford in Las Vegas, Nevada. While it remains unclear what the next move will be for the Mexican superstar, whether he seeks a rematch or takes a different path, one fighter is already eager to step into the ring with him: Christian Mbilli.

Mbilli had previously expressed interest in facing the winner of the undisputed super middleweight championship fight. But after Canelo’s surprising defeat to a fighter who hadn’t fought in 10 months and moved up two weight classes, Mbilli changed his sights.

Mbilli confident of win over Canelo

“I don’t know if he can handle my pressure, my punches, because I throw a lot of punches, apply constant pressure, and bring a lot of energy. I don’t know if Canelo can take it right now, but I can win, and I have a very good chance,” Mbilli told Box Azteca.

Although Canelo has only three losses over a 20-year career, Mbilli is undefeated at 168 pounds and holds the interim title in that division. He has already announced he wants to be next in line when Canelo decides to fight again, though the Cameroonian has one more fight scheduled before that opportunity.

Christian Mbilli impresses on Canelo vs. Crawford undercard

The World Boxing Council (WBC) was impressed by Mbilli’s performance against Lester Martínez on the Canelo vs. Crawford undercard. WBC president Mauricio Sulaimán ordered an immediate rematch between the two undefeated fighters in the super middleweight division.

Mbilli is currently ranked the number one contender to face Canelo by The Ring magazine. The publication is owned by Saudi Arabian businessman Turki Alshaik, president of the General Authority for Entertainment, who has played a key role in promoting boxing globally.

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