Jermell Charlo Hints at Return to Junior Middleweight: 'I’m Coming for Everything They Thought I Lost'

For years, Jermell Charlo chased the dream of fighting Canelo Alvarez. That pursuit came true in September 2023, when he jumped two weight divisions from junior middleweight to super middleweight to challenge the Mexican superstar. The gamble backfired. Alvarez dominated from bell to bell, handing Charlo a lopsided decision loss that left the Houston native sidelined and largely silent ever since.

Now, after nearly two years out of the spotlight, Charlo (35-2-1, 19 KOs) says he’s ready to return and back at his natural weight of 154 pounds.

Charlo Breaks His Silence

On Instagram, the former undisputed junior middleweight champion pushed back against critics who say he’s done:

“My two-year layoff was not by choice. I been sitting back watching, letting ‘em talk, but now it’s my turn. I’m back sharper than ever, and I’m coming for everything they thought I lost. I’m him.”

Charlo has dropped further hints that his comeback will be staged at junior middleweight, where he once unified all four belts.

A New Championship Landscape

When Charlo last fought at 154, rivals like Jeison Rosario, Brian Castaño, and Tony Harrison were holding titles. Today, the division looks much different:

• Sebastian Fundora — WBC champion

• Xander Zayas — WBO champion

• Bakhram Murtazaliev — IBF champion

• Terence Crawford — WBA champion

It’s a fresh mix of champions, from the towering Fundora to rising star Zayas and pound-for-pound king Crawford. Charlo insists none of them are on his level, but after two years out, he’ll have to prove it inside the ring.

The Road Back

At 35, Charlo faces questions about whether he can regain his form as the division’s top dog. His resume still boasts big wins over Castaño, Rosario, and Harrison — and if sharp as promised, he remains one of the most dangerous men at 154.

For now, all eyes are on when and against whom he makes his long-awaited return.