Terence Crawford's retirement from boxing has left the major championship belts in the Super Middleweight division vacant. His last opponent, the legendary Mexican boxer Saul “Canelo” Alvarez, is now on a quest to regain those belts.
Just yesterday, Chairman of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority Turki Alalshikh confirmed on social media that Canelo Alvarez will make his return to the ring on September 12, 2026, in Riyadh. This next fight will mark Canelo’s 69th fight in a professional career that has seen him become the first Mexican to achieve undisputed status in any division. Additionally, this will be the first fight under the banner of his new promotion, Canelo Promotions.
Fighting M'billi for the full WBC title would also mark a return to the organization whose green belt has been closely associated with Canelo’s career, overseen by longtime ally Mauricio Sulaiman. For fans seeking action, the style clash guarantees a thrilling fight, as his most recent bout was a back-and-forth barnburner against Lester Martinez ending in a draw.
3. Lester Martinez
Speaking of Lester Martinez, the WBC’s no. 3-ranked fighter would be a good litmus test for Alvarez, who is nearing the twilight of his career. Much like Mbilli, Martinez brings nonstop pressure to the ring and would fight Canelo with a fan-friendly yet skilled brawler attitude.
On the promotional side of things, Martinez brings a layer of narrative drama to the fight as he is the training partner of Canelo’s now-retired foe, Terence Crawford. A bout with Martinez could be billed as a symbolic revenge fight against Crawford’s camp, with plenty of action to boot.
4. Dmitry Bivol
Bivol represents the single most significant unfinished chapter in Canelo’s legendary career. Their first encounter in May 2022 saw Bivol hand Canelo a clear unanimous decision loss, a defeat that has lingered as the Mexican star's most debated setback.
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According to Artur Beterbiev’s interview with Fight Hub TV in December, Bivol reportedly declined an offer for a trilogy match against Beterbiev in Russia. This could be a sign that Bivol instead wants a more lucrative rematch against Canelo.
A rematch for Canelo, however, is a chance for him to conquer one of the era's most technically brilliant fighters and solidify his legacy against a man who defeated him at his peak.
5. David Benavidez
Alalshikh’s emphasis on a surprise and the potential for a world title fight opens the door for a move to light heavyweight against David Benavidez. This potential fight is one that the boxing world has demanded for years and remains the most compelling option. An audacious challenge against “The Mexican Monster” would certainly qualify as a major surprise.
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According to Andreas Hale from ESPN, however, Benavidez is scheduled to fight Zurdo Ramirez in May, which would make a September fight with Canelo a quick and difficult turnaround. Such a move for Canelo, however, would silence the critics who believe he is ducking Benavidez. It would also add to his legacy of seeking major challenges in higher weight classes.
Legacy of Canelo’s Next Chapter
Canelo Alvarez’s September return will be the launch of his new promotion and a critical pivot in the legacy of one of this era’s defining fighters.
Whether he chooses the long-awaited mega-fight, a fresh challenge from a new champion, or a move up in weight, his decision will reshape the landscape of the sport. Boxing fans and media will keep their eyes peeled to see which contender will step up for a chance at history on September 12.