After Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez’s Big Win on Saturday, Which Potential Opponents Are on The Short List?

After Saul Canelo Alvarez defeated Christian Mbilli to regain the WBC super-middleweight title, only one question persists: What is next?

Alvarez (64-3-2, 39 KOs) is boxing’s biggest name. His fights are events. People tune in to see Canelo or at least listen to podcasts and fight-related content because of him.

With him turning back the clock and winning a wide, unanimous decision over Mbilli, it is only natural to wonder what is next. At 36, he is not old, but you can tell he has a ton of money and might be eyeing his exit sooner than people think, as he just entered the 21st year of his pro career. It is safe to say this is his final act, and it is honestly pretty cool. Canelo beat a modern champion, Mbilli, who had a style that might trouble an older fighter, and he did so handily, content with his wealth.

Let’s look at the options.

Hamzah Sheeraz

Sheeraz seems the most likely option. Sheeraz has been backed by SELA, and Alvarez still has a deal with them as well. Sheeraz has also looked very average since his fight with Carlos Adames. It is a chance for Sheeraz to get a big fight, while Alvarez would enter as a sizable favorite.

Terence Crawford

The Crawford fight will irk Alvarez. He lost to a smaller fighter who moved up in weight. Crawford has since retired, but I believe a rematch will be whispered about at some point, since that loss will stand out on Alvarez’s resume. I think Alvarez wants revenge, or at least the opportunity for redemption. Will Crawford give him that? Who knows? That said, I think it should be brought up.

Lester Martinez

Martinez holds the interim WBC title. He should be next. That said, should and what will happen can be two different things. Martinez looked good against Mbilli and is now waiting for his big moment against a top name. The question is: Will Canelo grant him this shot?

Diego Pacheco

Pacheco is highly ranked, and if he can defeat Darius Fulghum, he is a credible challenger. Would it move the needle? Probably not as much as some would hope, but it would be an interesting stylistic clash, as Pacheco likes to move around and Alvarez sometimes isn’t fond of that in his later years.

Jermall Charlo

Alvarez already fought his brother, but if he wanted to, Jermall is sticking around the sport somewhat. It would be a battle of two names, but also of two fighters in different places. Though I see it as unlikely, it is an option.

Lucas Ketelle

Lucas Ketelle is a boxing writer and podcaster who has appeared on various platforms throughout his career.

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