What Is Next For Canelo’s Future?

Originally posted on BoxingNews.com | Last updated Dec 20, 2025 11:36 PM ET

Canelo Alvarez is at crossroads after Terence Crawford’s retirement has ended all hopes of a rematch.

Canelo wanted a sequel after Crawford pulled off a historic upset in September 2025, outpointing Canelo to become a three-weight undisputed champion via a unanimous decision. Canelo, who underwent elbow surgery shortly after that loss, had made a rematch his top priority for a September 2026 return.

After Bud’s camp reportedly demanded $100 million for the rematch, Crawford stunned the sport by announcing his official retirement on December 16. With “Bud” walking away at 42-0, Canelo is left without his chance at redemption and without an opponent for his traditional Mexican Independence Day weekend slot. If Canelo wants to reclaim his undisputed status at super middleweight, he will have to fight some hungry contenders who are no longer waiting in his shadow.

Options

Christian Mbilli: The WBC interim champion is the frontrunner. While he recently fought to a grueling draw against Lester Martinez on the Canelo-Crawford undercard, the WBC has already ordered a rematch. The winner will be the undeniable mandatory for Canelo.

Osleys Iglesias: The undefeated Cuban southpaw has become the boogeyman of the division. As the IBF’s top-rated challenger, he represents a high-risk, low-reward style that Canelo has avoided in the past.

Diego Pacheco & Hamzah Sheeraz: These two towering prospects are linked to a massive “Riyadh Season” clash in February. The victor would immediately become the most “bankable” young challenger for a September showdown.

Jose Armando Resendiz: Resendiz pulled off a massive upset in May 2025 by defeating Caleb Plant, earning him the WBA interim title and making him a viable “all-Mexican” option for Canelo.

If the 168-pound contenders don’t tempt Canelo, he could move up. Rematches with the elite at light heavyweight remain on the table, specifically a chance to avenge his 2022 loss to Dmitry Bivol (the current WBA, WBO, and IBF king) or a clash with the WBC Light Heavyweight Champion David Benavidez. With Canelo skipping his usual Cinco de Mayo date to continue his recovery, the pressure is on for Eddy Reynoso and the “Canelo Team” to find a name that justifies the wait.

This article first appeared on BoxingNews.com and was syndicated with permission.

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