Since announcing he has signed with Premier Boxing Champions, the list of potential opponents for Canelo Alvarez has grown dramatically.
The undisputed super middleweight champion looks complete a three-fight deal to remember, with a bout close to Mexican Independence Day (September 16) on his mind. Per Mike Coppinger of ESPN, the Mexican superstar’s contract has him also competing in two fights in 2024 after this year: on Cinco De Mayo weekend and the next Mexican Independence Day.
Canelo returned from wrist surgery and outpointed John Ryder in May to retain his titles. Before that, he beat Gennadiy Golovkin in a trilogy bout.
The 32-year-old planned for a rematch against WBA light heavyweight champion Dmitry Bivol, but Canelo wants to fight at light heavyweight, while Bivol is interested in fighting at super middleweight. He also showed interest in cruiserweight Badou Jack, but the 39-year-old rejected the fight due to a catchweight and rehydration clause.
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The question on everyone’s mind is simple: With the year winding down, who will Canelo fight next?
Will Canelo Alvarez fight Jermall Charlo?
Per Coppinger, Canelo was meant to fight WBC middleweight champion Jermall Charlo.
A “done deal” for a fight was signed for September, per Canelo on social media, though he didn’t directly say Charlo’s name.
In a major update, Canelo will fight Jermall's brother Jermell, the undisputed super welterweight champion. Jermell beat Brian Castano in May 2022 to become king of the super welterweights. He has been out of action due to a hand injury, and is currently scheduled to fight Tim Tszyu, the interim WBO super welterweight champion.
Per Chris Mannix, Jermall is unavailable to fight Canelo due to personal issues. WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman has stated in the past he is working on his mental health. It is unknown what is next for Tszyu.
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The fight is the first undisputed vs. undisputed bout in boxing's four-belt era (for men).
When will Canelo Alvarez fight Jermell Charlo?
Per Dan Rafael, a proposed Canelo vs. Charlo fight (when it was rumored to be Jermall) takes place on September 30. That date is still in play for Canelo vs. Jermell. It is expected to be a Showtime PPV bout. As of now, that date has no competition from boxing, MMA, or pro wrestling.
On September 16, the UFC has scheduled a fight night in the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas for Mexican Independence Day. The main event is Alexa Grasso defending the UFC flyweight title against former champion Valentina Shevchenko.
Canelo has previously competed against UFC cards, with both fight nights clashing at certain points.
The Sporting News will provide updates when available regarding this news.