Canelo Alvarez could be presented with an immediate unification match if he proves successful against WBC super-middleweight champion Christian Mbilli.
The Mexican has not fought since losing his undisputed crown to Terence Crawford, who produced a masterful performance to unanimously outpoint his man last September.
‘Bud’ then announced his retirement in December, allowing Mbilli to be upgraded from ‘interim’ to full world champion following his 10-round draw with Lester Martinez.
Canelo will therefore have the opportunity to reclaim one of his belts on October 31, albeit in a fight where many are favouring the freshness and intensity of his opponent.
If he emerges victorious, though, then the 36-year-old may seek to unify his division against one of the remaining champions.
The obvious choice would be WBO champion Hamzah Sheeraz, given that Canelo has already defeated Jaime Mungua – who he also currently shares a gym with – and is unlikely to seek out 168lb dangerman Osleys Iglesias.
With Sheeraz set to defend his title against mandatory challenger Janibek Alimkhanuly, however, it is possible that Alvarez will end up facing the former unified middleweight champion instead.
Taking to social media, Alimkhanuly unsurprisingly expressed his interest in taking on one of the sport’s biggest stars.
“Canelo, get ready! Inshalla, I’ll beat [Sheeraz] and we’ll unify the [titles]!”
Canelo, get ready! Inshalla, I'll beat Shiraz and we'll unify the title!
— Janibek Alimkhanuly (@qazaqstyle) August 14, 2026
Given that Alimkhanuly tested positive for banned substance meldonium in December, many have lambasted the WBO for offering him a route towards two-division championship status.
Due to his failed doping test, the 33-year-old has also not fought since defeating overmatched challenger Anauel Ngamissengue with a fifth-round stoppage in April 2025.
