“Canelo, Bivol, and Beterbiev… I knock out all three. All three in the same night,” Benavidez said in an interview with ESPN Knockout, doubling down when asked which of the three he believed he could finish.

While the claim of beating all three in one night is impossible, it shows how Benavidez is building his “Monster” image and trying to get attention from fans and the boxing world. His goal is to make it impossible for the biggest names to ignore him.

Moving up to light heavyweight

Since moving up to 175 pounds, Benavidez, who recently admitted that a clash with Canelo may never happen, has shown he can hold his own against bigger fighters. He no longer enjoys the size advantage he had at 168, so he now leans more on his speed, combinations, and endurance.

Bivol is one of the toughest challenges. The Russian fighter uses distance, footwork, and a strong jab to control the ring. Experts think he could avoid Benavidez’s attacks and win by points, but Benavidez believes his speed and pressure style can overcome those defenses.

The Beterbiev test

Beterbiev is a very different type of challenge. He is extremely strong and excels at fighting up close. Benavidez is faster and throws more combinations, but taking a solid punch from Beterbiev is a big risk. This fight could go either way, with Benavidez’s youth and stamina against Beterbiev’s power and experience.

Canelo remains the most elusive target. By naming him along with Bivol and Beterbiev, Benavidez keeps the conversation going and builds pressure for a future matchup. His statements, while bold, clearly show he wants to be seen as one of the top fighters at 175 pounds and is ready for the biggest tests in the division.

Canelo Alvarez is entering the final stage of his storied career. For that reason, fans believe it is time for him to take on the challengers he has previously bypassed, most notably Benavidez, who has long been the mandatory contender at super middleweight.

However, Benavidez himself, who Jake Paul has admitted he would never face, has grown tired of waiting for the call from the Alvarez camp. He recently admitted that despite continuous requests from the boxing world, the bout may remain a “what if” in boxing history.

“I feel like I’ve moved on, but I don’t think the people have moved on, to be honest with you,” Benavidez told TMZ Sports. “I always have hope that the fight is going to happen because the fight is too big — it’s too big a fight to leave it on the table.”

Retirement looms for Canelo

In recent interviews, Canelo Alvarez has stated his intention to retire by age 37; he is currently 35. However, his most recent performances suggest that his departure from the ring could come sooner than expected.

Last September, Canelo was defeated by Terence Crawford in a result that stunned the boxing community. Crawford, who moved up two weight classes to secure the win, unexpectedly retired shortly after, leaving Canelo without the immediate opportunity for a rematch to avenge the loss.

Without a clear path to a high-profile victory, the idea of retirement seems to be weighing more heavily on Alvarez. While he remains a legendary figure, his performance against Crawford proved that his physical prime may be behind him.

Could Canelo Alvarez face Jake Paul?

Jake Paul has repeatedly voiced his desire to step into the ring with Canelo Alvarez. While both men are coming off losses, Alvarez may now view a bout against the “Problem Child” as a viable financial opportunity before hanging up the gloves.

Following Paul’s dramatic knockout loss to Anthony Joshua in March 2026, a matchup with Alvarez could serve as a “bounce-back” opportunity for both. However, taking such a fight would likely signal the definitive end of Canelo’s status as an elite professional contender, shifting his legacy toward the “celebrity boxing” circuit.

“We are considering September, but nothing is confirmed,” Canelo’s potential opponent Christian Mbilli’s manager, Camille Estephan, told FightsATW, highlighting the many variables outside Alvarez’s control.

Canelo, who lost all his super middleweight titles to Crawford in a unanimous decision, may face Mbilli in Saudi Arabia. But the conflict in the Middle East and his recovery timeline leave the fight uncertain, especially as Crawford’s unexpected retirement forced Canelo into a difficult career decision.

September bout plans remain in flux

The Mexican star has targeted the super middleweight division (168 lb), where he has performed best, for his comeback. While Mbilli holds the WBC title, fans and media have speculated about potential matchups with Dmitry Bivol or David Benavidez. Each option carries significant risk, making Canelo’s decision even more delicate.

Recovery and timing key to return

Canelo’s elbow surgery and rehabilitation will be pivotal in determining whether he can safely return to competition. Promoters and the fighter’s camp must balance fan demand with ensuring Canelo is fully ready, both physically and logistically, for a high-stakes September bout.

Last year, Terence Crawford defeated Canelo Alvarez by unanimous decision. They were scheduled for a rematch in September, yet the American unexpectedly announced his retirement, leaving Saul without an opponent.

With Crawford out of the picture, Canelo must now find a new challenger. Three options are on the table, each representing a completely different type of challenge.

Canelo Alvarez linked to three potential rivals for September bout

With Terence Crawford hanging up the gloves, Canelo Alvarez’s team has been searching for a suitable rival for the Mexican star. Three names are under consideration, and each offers a distinct test.

The first option is David Benavidez. He has repeatedly called out Alvarez for a bout, though the Mexican has not yet shown significant interest in facing him.

The second option is Christian Mbilli, who was upgraded to full WBC champion after retaining his title following a draw against Lester Martinez in their high-stakes 2025 clash.

The final option is Lester Martinez himself. Many believe Martinez’s performance in the draw against Mbilli proved he is a rightful contender, and the Guatemalan fighter has expressed his readiness to challenge the Mexican star at any time.

In September, Crawford added another historic achievement by defeating Canelo Alvarez to capture the super middleweight championship, a victory that further cemented his legacy. The win came after Crawford moved up significantly in weight, silencing doubts about whether the size difference would prove decisive.

Despite the magnitude of that triumph, Crawford has now revealed that Canelo was not the toughest challenge he faced during his career. Instead, the Nebraska native pointed to a much earlier fight as the most difficult night he ever endured inside the ring.

Crawford’s toughest opponent

Speaking during a recent livestream appearance with Adin Ross, Crawford was asked directly whether Canelo Alvarez represented the hardest opponent of his career. His response was immediate and definitive. “No,” Crawford said. “Gamboa was the hardest person I ever fought — and that was at 135 pounds.”

Crawford was referring to his 2014 title defense against Yuriorkis Gamboa, a former Olympic gold medalist and one of the most explosive fighters of his era. The bout took place shortly after Crawford won the WBO lightweight title, and early rounds saw Gamboa’s speed and power give Crawford significant problems.

Crawford shuts down Mayweather comeback speculation

Since announcing his retirement, speculation has persisted about whether Crawford could return for a blockbuster bout, particularly against Floyd Mayweather.

However, Crawford has made it clear that such a scenario is not under consideration.“Nah, man. I wouldn’t fight him,” Crawford said. “Floyd is old, man. Floyd is done.”

In a social-media post from what appeared to be a hospital room, Paul confirmed that his jaw had been broken in two places. The shocking disclosure came alongside an X-ray image showing the fractures.

Paul confirmed on X that he suffered a “double broken jaw” in his loss to Joshua, while also issuing a bold warning with “Give me Canelo in 10 days,” signaling his intent to challenge Canelo Alvarez despite the injury.

Paul’s injury context

The double jaw fracture was severe enough to require medical treatment, and Paul was taken to a hospital after the bout. Most Valuable Promotions CEO Nakisa Bidarian later indicated that a broken jaw in boxing is not uncommon and that recovery could take several weeks, with a typical timeline of four to six weeks before returning to training.

While the challenge to Canelo was likely posted in a mix of bravado and frustration, the immediate priority for Paul will be recovery from a significant facial injury.

On Wednesday, Terence Crawford stunned the boxing world by announcing his retirement. The decision came as a major surprise, especially considering reports that Crawford had agreed to a multi-fight deal with Canelo Alvarez after defeating him last September.

With Terence Crawford out of the picture, Saul Alvarez must now identify a new opponent for the first half of 2026—and Jake Paul suddenly emerges as a realistic option.

Jake Paul finds fresh motivation ahead of Anthony Joshua clash

Before any potential showdown with Canelo, Jake Paul faces the biggest test of his boxing career. The YouTuber-turned-boxer is set to take on Anthony Joshua this Friday, a fight that could reshape his standing in the sport.

A victory over Joshua would dramatically elevate Paul’s credibility, positioning him as a legitimate contender rather than a novelty act. Such a result could also strengthen his case to finally lure Alvarez into the ring.

Throughout their long-running feud, Canelo has repeatedly dismissed Paul as unworthy of sharing the ring with him. However, with Crawford retired and Paul on the verge of a career-defining opportunity, that stance may soon change.

Jake Paul vs. Anthony Joshua weigh-in results

On Thursday, Jake Paul and Anthony Joshua officially weighed in for their highly anticipated bout. The physical disparity between the two fighters was evident, with Joshua holding a significant edge in size and reach.

Final measurements:

• Jake Paul: 6’1″, 216.6 lbs, 76-inch reach
• Anthony Joshua: 6’6″, 243.4 lbs, 82-inch reach

Fans and pundits alike were surprised by Canelo’s performance, as many expected the seasoned champion to dominate. Instead, Crawford’s tactical approach exposed gaps in strategy and execution, leading to one of the most scrutinized fights of Canelo’s career.

Among those sharing sharp insights is Juan Manuel Marquez, a former world champion and one of boxing’s most respected tacticians. Marquez knows what it takes to overcome elite opponents, and he was candid in assessing Canelo’s shortcomings.

What did Marquez see in Canelo’s performance?

Reflecting on the fight, Marquez told Izquierdazo, “Canelo Alvarez lacked strategy, he lacked a corner, so to speak. He needed a bit more guidance, something like: ‘Don’t just throw power shots, throw combinations. Crawford is hitting you—counterpunch too, you know how to do it well.’”

He continued, “And Canelo does counterpunch well, so in that sense he needed a bit more strategy, a proper game plan. Maybe they were overconfident that weight would be a deciding factor, that power punches alone would do the job. But the strategy was missing.”

Marquez’s critique highlights that despite Canelo’s natural power and experience, boxing at the highest level requires both preparation and adaptability. The fight showcased how a lack of tactical adjustments can leave even the most accomplished fighters exposed.

Analysts and fans share the same concern

Other experts echoed Marquez’s observations, pointing to Canelo’s passivity during key moments of the bout. Analysts noted that relying solely on physical advantage and knockout power was insufficient against Crawford, who demonstrated skill, timing, and poise far beyond expectations.

For a fighter of Canelo’s caliber, these criticisms underline the importance of a cohesive game plan, strategic cornering, and in-fight adaptability—a combination that could define his future success against elite opponents.

Canelo (62-3-2, 39 KOs) recently suffered a unanimous decision loss to Terence Crawford in Las Vegas, relinquishing his Ring Magazine super middleweight title. The 35-year-old is now expected to return to the ring in the second or third quarter of 2026, once his rehabilitation is complete.

A statement from Canelo’s team confirmed the diagnosis: “Canelo has been diagnosed with loose bodies in his left elbow. After a thorough evaluation and medical consultation with his orthopedic surgeon, he is scheduled to undergo a left elbow arthroscopic procedure to remove the loose bodies.

Canelo’s team added: “Following the procedure, his orthopedic surgeon is recommending the use of a sling for a short period of time. His rehabilitation program is expected to allow a return to light training within 4 to 6 weeks. The prognosis is excellent, and Saúl is anticipated to make a full recovery and return to championship-level boxing.”

How this surgery affects Canelo’s schedule

This procedure marks the third surgery of Canelo’s professional career. He previously underwent right knee surgery in 2018 and a left wrist procedure in 2022. The upcoming elbow surgery will be performed by Dr. Steve Mora, a leading orthopedic surgeon.

The delay in Canelo’s return also pushes back the next fight in his four-fight deal with Riyadh Season, originally scheduled for February 2026. Despite the setback, the team remains confident in his recovery and ability to regain championship form in the months ahead.

Recovery outlook and next steps

Canelo’s medical team expects him to begin light training within four to six weeks, with a full return to competitive boxing likely in mid-2026. Fans and the boxing community have expressed widespread support for the superstar as he undergoes surgery and rehabilitation.

Canelo remains The Ring’s No. 1 super middleweight, and his focus now turns to a complete recovery and regaining peak form for his next championship challenge.

The fight exposed gaps in Canelo’s usual in-fight adaptability. Despite his lifelong partnership with Eddy Reynoso, Alvarez seemed unable to make the adjustments necessary to counter Crawford’s technique. His corner provided limited solutions between rounds, and the Mexican superstar’s frustration was apparent.

Former promoter and boxing legend Oscar De La Hoya weighed in on Canelo’s future, highlighting a potential solution. “The only thing that I can tell him or give him advice is ‘get a new trainer,’” De La Hoya said, according to CBS Sports. “I can’t advise him on retiring or staying in boxing; that’s a very personal decision.“

“But I can say, get a new trainer, you’ll do better, a new trainer will teach you different tricks. Imagine him getting one of the best trainers in the world like a Ronnie Shields who’s going to teach you footwork, who’s going to teach you speed and movement and not be so heavy on your feet. So imagine with his power and his reflexes — he still has a chance to fight several more fights with the elites, but he needs a new trainer.” De La Hoya added.

Could a trainer switch revitalize Canelo?

De La Hoya’s advice stems from a career-long perspective on elite boxing. He pointed out that Canelo’s footwork and movement were exposed by Crawford, and that other technicians like Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Dmitry Bivol had previously frustrated Canelo with similar precision. A new trainer could potentially add dimensions to Canelo’s game, helping him remain competitive at the highest level.

The road ahead for Canelo

Canelo is still capable of competing with the best, particularly against fighters who engage him in styles favorable to his strengths. De La Hoya emphasized that Canelo’s power and reflexes remain elite and that careful matchmaking could allow him to continue racking up victories. Whether Canelo heeds the advice to switch trainers or sticks with Reynoso will be critical for his next chapter, possibly including a rematch with Crawford.

Both fighters face lucrative opportunities ahead, and retirement seems unlikely. A rematch between Crawford and Canelo is already being viewed as the most compelling next step, offering both the chance to settle unfinished business and capitalize on the financial rewards a second bout would bring.

The World Boxing Council (WBC) has released its first super middleweight rankings following the fight, listing Canelo Alvarez as the new No. 1 contender. This is the first of the four major sanctioning bodies to issue updated standings after the bout, keeping Alvarez at the forefront of the division despite his recent loss.

Could Canelo Alvarez’s new WBC ranking lead to a Crawford rematch?

While Alvarez once held the WBC super middleweight title, the updated rankings now position him as the top contender in the division. This shift ensures he remains in the conversation for high-profile fights, and a rematch with Crawford becomes a realistic scenario if negotiations align.

The outcome of this ranking is likely to influence fight promotions and decisions in the coming months, with boxing fans eager to see whether Canelo and Crawford will face off again.

Just a few days ago, Terence Crawford’s camp delivered a firm response regarding potential immediate bouts against David Benavidez and Jaron “Boots” Ennis, clarifying what his next career steps might look like. That update came shortly before the WBC officially released its new super middleweight rankings, placing Canelo Alvarez as the No. 1 contender.

As the boxing world watches, the focus now turns to upcoming negotiations and scheduling, which will determine if a Crawford-Canelo rematch becomes the next marquee event in the super middleweight division.