“Canelo is very old right now. Canelo is not the same Canelo like 10 year before, five year before,” Mbilli told The Ring. “He’s still dangerous. He’s still a good fighter. I think he’s top three, top two of the division.”

Canelo recently received a $200M offer from Jake Paul, but despite remaining one of boxing’s biggest names for more than a decade, Mbilli believes the veteran champion may no longer be at his physical peak after turning professional at just 15 years old.

Mbilli believes his style could trouble Canelo

Mbilli pointed directly to his aggressive style as one reason he feels confident about a possible fight against Canelo. The unbeaten contender believes his pace, pressure, and punch volume could create difficult moments for the former undisputed champion.

“I don’t know if right now he can take my pressure and my punch because I throw a lot of punch, a lot of pressure,” Mbilli said. “I think I can win. Right now it’s time to take Canelo because he’s getting old.”

Mbilli still calls fighting Canelo a “privilege”

Despite his confidence, Mbilli also made it clear he still respects everything Canelo has accomplished during his career. “It will be a privilege to fight Canelo,” Mbilli said. “To have a big name like Canelo, I will be very happy.”

A fight between the two would likely become one of the biggest events in the division, especially as questions continue growing about Canelo’s future and how much longer he plans to compete at the highest level.

“Canelo, I have the $200 million for you, easy money. Jake vs Canelo, let’s get it done,” Paul said during a recent livestream. “This is the biggest fight in boxing.” He also suggested the Mexican star is open to the idea after previous discussions.

The comments have sparked debate because Paul is still rebuilding his boxing career after a knockout loss to Anthony Joshua earlier this year. Many also question whether a sanctioning body would approve such a fight due to the large gap in experience between the two fighters.

WBC president reacts to growing fight rumors

WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman responded to the speculation, saying the organization has not received any official request for sanctioning. Still, he acknowledged Paul’s recent step-up in competition has changed how some view him.

“We have not received a request for sanctioning,” Sulaiman said via SPORTbible. “Jake Paul proved himself by fighting Mike Tyson and Anthony Joshua.” He added that Paul has earned some respect by facing tougher opponents, but did not confirm whether a Canelo fight would be approved.

Canelo remains the major target

A fight with Canelo would be the biggest test of Paul’s career. He is a four-division world champion and one of boxing’s top names, with a long record of elite wins and championship success.

Paul, meanwhile, continues to try to establish himself at the highest level after recent setbacks, including a serious injury and recovery period following his loss to Joshua.

Despite that, his name still draws major attention for potential crossover fights. For now, the matchup remains only speculation, but the WBC president’s response has kept the conversation alive.

During a recent livestream, Paul claimed he has already discussed the potential matchup directly with Canelo and insisted the financial terms are ready to move forward. “Canelo wants 200 million. I have the 200 million dollars for you, easy money. Jake Paul vs Canelo, let’s get it done. This is what the fans have been waiting for. This is the biggest fight that can possibly be made in boxing,” Paul said.

The comments arrive after former UFC veteran Matt Brown questioned Paul’s career‑threatening injury claim, as Canelo prepares for his return to the ring after nearly a year away from competition following elbow surgery and his upset loss to Terence Crawford in their undisputed super‑middleweight title fight last September.

Paul continues pushing for blockbuster Canelo fight

Paul also stated during the stream that Canelo had shown interest in the fight during private conversations, increasing speculation surrounding a possible crossover mega-event.

“Canelo says he’s down on the phone, so we’re going to make it happen. I have the 200 million and I think that’s going to be the next fight. Sign the contract Canelo. Much respect to you, let’s make the biggest fight in boxing happen,” Paul added.

The potential matchup would likely become one of the most commercially successful events in combat sports given both fighters’ massive global audiences and social media influence.

Canelo remains focused on return against Mbilli

Despite Paul’s public push for the fight, Canelo is currently preparing for his scheduled return against WBC super-middleweight champion Christian Mbilli in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia this September.

Canelo has not competed since suffering the surprising loss to Crawford and subsequently undergoing elbow surgery during his recovery period. Meanwhile, Paul’s own future in boxing recently appeared uncertain after his stoppage loss to Anthony Joshua in December.

Jake Paul star previously suggested he might not return to the ring, though his latest comments indicate he remains interested in pursuing another high-profile showdown.

“I definitely feel like with [Canelo] not wanting to take the fight with me has gave me more attention,” Benavidez told ESPN. “But at the end of the day I don’t want to just think about Canelo… I know I’m a star by myself, so I’m there making my own path.”

Benavidez admitted clash with Canelo may never happen, a reality that has pushed him to expand his ambitions after repeated efforts to secure the showdown fell through. He has since moved up in weight and begun targeting top names across multiple divisions, with his upcoming bout at cruiserweight representing both a risk and an opportunity to redefine his standing among boxing’s elite.

Benavidez builds momentum beyond Canelo narrative

Rather than waiting for a marquee fight that may never materialize, Benavidez has taken an aggressive approach to his career. By stepping into a new division and challenging a seasoned champion like Ramirez, he is positioning himself as a fighter willing to chase greatness on his own terms.

The increased attention stemming from the Canelo storyline has, in some ways, worked in his favor. However, Benavidez has made it clear that his long-term goals extend far beyond a single opponent, focusing instead on collecting titles and strengthening his résumé against top-tier competition.

Future targets include Bivol and other elite names

Looking ahead, Benavidez has already identified potential high-profile matchups that could shape the next phase of his career. “I think the biggest fight for me is obviously… Bivol because Bivol has all the belts and that’s really what I’m after,” he said, referencing Dmitry Bivol as a primary target.

He also mentioned interest in facing Artur Beterbiev, while acknowledging the complexities surrounding a potential clash with Jai Opetaia. For now, though, all attention remains on Ramirez, as Benavidez looks to secure a cruiserweight title and further validate his decision to forge a path independent of Canelo.

In a recent interview with Oso Trava on YouTube, Canelo admitted the emotional toll the defeat had on him, revealing how deeply it affected his mindset at the time. “It hurt me a lot because, however you want to call it, it hits your ego as a fighter… maybe I went through some level of depression. I don’t know if there are levels of depression, but yeah, maybe I did,” he said.

At just 23 years old during the bout, Canelo struggled to consistently handle Mayweather’s defensive mastery and counterpunching. The American controlled distance throughout the fight, limiting Canelo’s offense and securing a clear tactical advantage across 12 rounds.

The reflection comes after Canelo confirmed return for September, adding new context to how he processes past setbacks and prepares for the next chapter of his career.

How the Mayweather loss impacted Canelo’s mindset

Canelo explained that the defeat forced him to confront the gap between potential and experience at the elite level. “I just didn’t have the right experience, and I realised that afterward,” he said. The loss initially challenged his confidence, but also became a key learning point in his development as a fighter.

From setback to elite-level resilience

Over time, Canelo said he was able to reframe the defeat and regain perspective by reflecting on the level of opposition he faced. That mental reset helped him rebuild confidence and continue his progression into one of boxing’s most accomplished champions.

“I said, ‘I didn’t lose to just anyone, I lost to the best in the world,’” he reflected. Today, Canelo continues to build his legacy as a multi-division champion, though he now faces a new chapter of his career following his loss of the undisputed super-middleweight titles to Terence Crawford, setting up a period of adjustment and rebuilding.

Benavidez did not hold back when addressing the situation, making his stance clear in a recent interview. “He’s scared – he has no (expletive). That’s what it is. I give Canelo all the respect… but at the end of the day, I was the No.1 contender in two weight classes for a long, long time,” he said on Come And Talk 2 Me, expressing frustration over missed opportunities.

The tension comes as Canelo continues to pursue high-level bouts, including a planned return in September for a world title fight in Saudi Arabia. Meanwhile, Benavidez has moved divisions and is preparing for his own major challenge, adding further uncertainty to whether this long-discussed matchup will ever take place.

Benavidez questions missed opportunity at super-middleweight

For years, Benavidez pushed for a fight with Canelo while competing at 168 pounds, positioning himself as a top contender. “It’s really a shame because this is a fight everybody wants to see. This is a fight that the fans deserve,” Benavidez added, reinforcing the belief that the matchup was overlooked during a key window.

Future uncertainty clouds potential superfight

As both fighters continue their careers on separate paths, the chances of the fight happening appear increasingly uncertain. Benavidez is now set to face unified cruiserweight champion Gilberto Ramirez, a move that could further distance him from a clash with Canelo.

Still, the possibility has not been entirely ruled out. “I believe in myself and my skills 100%, so… why not give the fans what they want to see?” Benavidez said, leaving the door open for a future meeting under the right conditions.

Speaking to Box Azteca, Canelo made it clear that his focus is on facing the best available opponent. “Right now, [the opponent is] what we’re looking at… let’s see who’s the best, but always choosing the best, and above all, that he’s a champion,” he said.

After receiving a warning from Christian Mbilli’s camp, the 35‑year‑old is coming off elbow surgery following his loss to Crawford, who moved up in weight to beat him by unanimous decision before retiring shortly after. Now fully back in training, Canelo has expressed confidence in both his health and his preparation ahead of his return.

Canelo prioritizes health before comeback

Canelo admitted that delaying his return was necessary to properly address lingering injuries. “I wish I were just days away from fighting, but I had to take care of my body… I gave myself that time to address the injuries I had, and it’s worth it,” he explained.

The upcoming fight will headline a major event titled “Mexico Against the World”, expected to feature several top fighters from the country. For Canelo, the goal is not just to return, but to immediately compete at the highest level.

Mbilli emerges as leading opponent option

While no opponent has been officially announced, Christian Mbilli is widely seen as the frontrunner. The newly elevated WBC super-middleweight champion is a natural option, especially with no mandatory challenger standing in the way.

Other champions could also enter the picture depending on how the division unfolds in the coming weeks. Jose Armando Resendiz holds the WBA title, Osleys Iglesias recently captured the IBF belt, and the WBO title will soon be decided between Hamzah Sheeraz and Alem Begic.

With multiple belts now spread across the division, Canelo’s path back to the top is clear. His message is just as direct, he wants the best available champion, and he wants to prove he still belongs at the top.

Speaking after a recent title fight, promoter Camille Estephan delivered a bold statement regarding a possible clash. “Canelo will hopefully fight Christian [Mbilli]. He seems to want the WBC title. We’re not gonna give it to him. We will beat him,” he said, according to Boxing News, reinforcing the belief within the team.

Mbilli, who was elevated to WBC champion earlier this year, has quickly become one of the division’s central figures. With multiple belts now vacant or changing hands, the path toward an undisputed champion is wide open, and Mbilli’s camp wants to control it.

Mbilli’s camp aims to take over the division

Estephan didn’t stop at a single challenge. He outlined a broader plan for dominance, suggesting that Mbilli and stablemate Osleys Iglesias could collect all the belts in the division.

“We want to have all the titles in Quebec, all five, soon enough… We are gonna get all the other titles,” he added. The message reflects a long-term vision that goes beyond just one fight, positioning Mbilli as a future face of the division.

This approach also signals a shift in narrative. Instead of waiting for opportunities, Mbilli’s team is actively calling out top names and pushing for the biggest fights available.

Canelo fight looms as defining moment

A potential fight with Canelo remains one of the most anticipated matchups in boxing. The Mexican star is looking to rebound after his loss to Crawford and is expected to return in a high-stakes bout later this year.

Meanwhile, other titles are still in play, with fighters like Jose Armando Resendiz, Jaime Munguia, and Hamzah Sheeraz competing for remaining belts. However, Mbilli’s camp has made its stance clear: they are ready for anyone—and confident they will come out on top.

“First day of classes yesterday and today my first sparring session since September,” Canelo shared on social media, showing that he is gradually returning to full activity after months away.

His last fight came in September 2025, when he lost to Terence Crawford. After that, he underwent elbow surgery and had to slow down his training, remaining sidelined.

Now, he is building his rhythm again while adjusting to a new routine of school and boxing. His return comes at a heated time, as David Benavidez recently claimed he’d KO Canelo.

A new routine inside and outside the ring

Balancing college and training is not easy, but Canelo appears fully committed to both. This stage of his career is not just about getting back in shape, but also about growing personally.

Instead of rushing his return, he is taking a more complete approach, working on his physical condition while adapting to new responsibilities outside the sport.

Focus on a 2026 return

Canelo is expected to return to the ring in September 2026, although no opponent has been confirmed yet. Possible names include Christian Mbilli and Lester Martinez, with Mbilli seen as the more likely matchup.

For now, the focus remains clear as he continues training, staying consistent, and preparing for his next fight. With a new routine and renewed motivation, Canelo is working toward what could be an important comeback.

“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.