Veteran boxing trainer reveals the only boxer who could beat Canelo Alvarez

Mexican champion Saul “Canelo” Alvarez added another accolade to his storied career on Saturday night by capturing the IBF super middleweight title from Cuban fighter William Scull via unanimous decision (115–113, 116–112, 119–109) in a bout held in Saudi Arabia.

With the victory, Canelo now holds all four major belts at 168 pounds—the WBA, WBO, WBC, and now the IBF—solidifying his status as the undisputed king of the division. Despite his share of critics, the Guadalajara native continues to reinforce his reputation as the pound-for-pound best fighter in the world.

Still, the question remains: Who, if anyone, can stop Canelo? For esteemed trainer Robert García, there’s one clear candidate—and he currently holds no titles: David “The Red Flag” Benavidez.

“I don’t think there’s anyone right now who can beat Canelo,” Garcia told Fight Hub TV back in 2021. “I feel like the only one who could give him trouble—and maybe beat him—is Benavídez. He’s a tall fighter, very brave, and not afraid to go forward.”

Light heavyweight boxer David Benavidez poses on the scale during an official weigh-in at MGM Grand Garden Arena on June 14, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Steve Marcus/Getty Images)

Canelo’s challenge

Garcia added that Benavidez has the tools to seriously challenge the Mexican champion. “I still believe Canelo would win,” he continued, “but Benavídez could give him a real headache.” As speculation grows, Benavídez remains a compelling potential future opponent for Álvarez.

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What’s next for Canelo Alvarez?

Canelo is set to return to the ring on Friday, September 12, in his second fight of the year, aligning with Mexican Independence Day celebrations. His next opponent? Terence Crawford, one of the sport’s most technically gifted and decorated fighters.

The bout is part of a four-fight deal Canelo signed with Turki Alalshikh, chairman of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority, ensuring more marquee matchups under the kingdom’s growing boxing project.