BOXING
Canelo Álvarez has his sights on two opponents
The Mexican star, who will get back into the ring in September after defeating Ryder, has already chosen who he wants to fight next.
Saúl Álvarez has started, along with his team, the search for a new opponent after defeating John Ryder via unanimous decision last month at Estadio Akron, in Mexico.
Although Dmitry Bivol, regarded as Canelo’s toughest challenge, recently said he would accept fighting him if an Artur Beterbiev bout wasn’t possible, the Guadalajara native seems more interested in other names.
After his unimpressive last performances against Ryder and Caleb Plant, many believe Álvarez isn’t really interested in taking on Bivol again or in a fight against David Benavidez.
Some believe Canelo is on a decline, adding that the fact he’s always training and exercising in the gym has taken a toll on him over the years.
Canelo’s opponents: Badou Jack and Jermall Charlo
A second fight with the undefeated Bivol would be very risky, as he’s aware that a second loss to the Russian would tarnish his legacy, especially if the fight took place at 168 lbs, where he’s the undisputed champion.
While the Bivol fight seems now quite far, there are two names that have emerged over the last hours as Canelo’s most likely opponents in September: Badou Jack and Jermall Charlo.
Jack seems to be the most realistic option, as he’s currently in negotiations with Skills Challenge Entertainment for a fight against the 39-year-old Badou in Saudi Arabia.
The boxing promotion said that a bout between Canelo and the WBC cruiserweight champion is “90% agreed” and that the deal could include a multi-fight agreement.
It would make lots of sense for the undisputed super middleweight champion to try to get that fight, as Canelo would get a big payday from the Saudis and would face a fighter who’s well past his prime, having the chance of winning a fifth division world title.
Álvarez also met with Al Haymon of Premier Boxing Champions last week to discuss the possibility of fighting Jermall Charlo.
Although the American hasn’t fought since June 2021, he’s undefeated and has been champion in two weight classes, and is younger than Jack (33).
The inactivity could translate into ring rust for Charlo and that would favor the Mexican, but he’s still a dangerous rival for Canelo.