Canelo Alvarez’s Return Announced

Canelo Alvarez will return on September 12 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

The news comes following Canelo’s elbow surgery, which took place in the aftermath of his unanimous decision defeat to Terence Crawford last September. The loss ended his reign as the undisputed super middleweight champion. While Canelo was chasing the rematch, Crawford’s decision to retire has prevented any hopes of that.

“Every fighter know this moment will come. We just never know when. I used to spend my whole life chasing something. Not belts, not money, not headlines, but that feeling, the one you get when the world doubts you. But you keep showing up and you keep proving everyone wrong. This sport gave me everything. I fought for my family, I fought for my city, I fought for the kid I used to be – the one who had nothing but a dream and a pair of gloves. And I did it all my way,” Crawford said

The surgery also meant Canelo turned down the chance to face the Osleys Iglesias for the vacant IBF belt after the boxing organization made the order. Canelo’s return marks the inaugural event for Canelo Promotions, Alvarez’s newly debuted promotional company.

Canelo’s Return

The event, titled “Mexico Against the World,” will coincide with Mexican Independence Day weekend and will be a Riyadh Season headliner. Canelo is entering the second half of a massive four-fight agreement with Riyadh Season. This September bout will be his third under the deal, leaving one final fight likely scheduled for late 2026 or early 2027.

Without Crawford, names like Christian Mbilli, David Benavidez (if he returns to 168), or even Hamzah Sheeraz are being discussed as potential challengers for the vacant or regained super-middleweight belts. By launching Canelo Promotions, Alvarez joins the ranks of legends like Oscar De La Hoya and Floyd Mayweather, securing his financial future and long-term leverage in the sport as he enters his 36th year.