Will Canelo Alvarez fight again – and if so, against whom?
We won’t get a clearer picture until next year, once the Mexican star has had time to process the third loss of his career. Terence Crawford followed Floyd Mayweather and Dmitry Bivol in outclassing Canelo – and, like those before him, was never in any real danger of being beaten.
Next summer, one of this century’s biggest boxing attractions turns 36. With 68 fights and 532 rounds behind him, the finish line is approaching, but Mexican pride and a fighter’s ego make it hard to imagine Alvarez bowing out on a defeat.
So who could he face next? Here are three realistic options.
Terence Crawford
During a visit to TV Azteca, Canelo made it clear he intends to fight in 2026 – and that he wants a rematch with “Bud” Crawford. Losing his undisputed super-middleweight crown to a man who began his title run at lightweight will have stung. Motivation won’t be an issue, but few will expect Canelo to overturn September’s result against someone of Crawford’s calibre.
Hamzah Sheeraz
Since Hamzah Sheeraz linked up with Turki Alalshikh and Riyadh Season, one opponent has remained central to their ambitions: Canelo Alvarez. The loss to Crawford may have dented Sheeraz’s title momentum, but the chance to dethrone the former king still appeals.
Canelo, meanwhile, may look at Sheeraz’s explosive win over Edgar Berlanga and fancy the opportunity to tame the rising threat and send him home humbled.
Chris Eubank Jr
As part of Canelo’s multi-fight Riyadh Season deal, several names were discussed had he beaten Crawford, and one of those earmarked for 2026 was Chris Eubank Jr.
Both men have suffered damaging defeats in the second half of 2025, but if Alvarez chooses to fight overseas, London would be the obvious destination. And few British fighters can generate stadium crowds and major revenue like Eubank Jr. In boxing, some moments are events first and fights second – and Canelo–Eubank Jr fits that mould.
Whomever Canelo chooses, the options are limited. Any return must make sense financially and competitively. Between middleweight and super-middleweight, there are not many opponents who bring everything he requires to the table.
