‘If the Money Is Right, I’ll Make That Call’: Three Potential Next Opponents for Canelo Álvarez

Canelo Álvarez (61-2-2, 39 KOs) showed his experience and class as he defeated Jaime Munguía (43-1, 34 KOs) by unanimous decision, with the judges scorecards reading 117-110, 116-111 and 115-112. The two fighters met in the headliner of a Premier Boxing Champions PPV at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Canelo Promotions and TGB Promotions promoted the event in association with Golden Boy Promotions and Zanfer Boxing Promotions. Following the dominant win for Álvarez, attention now turns to what comes next for Canelo.

Canelo Álvarez Next Fight

Terence Crawford

After defeating Munguía, Canelo will naturally weigh up what fights are available and one of the biggest out there would be a clash against undisputed welterweight champion Terence Crawford. “Bud” is readying himself to take on Israil Madrimov for the WBA strap and the WBO interim title. 

Its a big ask for Crawford to step up in weight again to tackle another undisputed crown, but what a fight this would be and the interest would be phenomenal. How likely this fight will happen seems to be dependent on how Crawford fairs against Madrimov on August 3.

David Benavidez

David Benavidez is readying himself to take on Oleksandr Gvozdyk in a light heavyweight bout on June 15. Canelo was asked about Benavidez and other potential fights after his win at the weekend: “If the money is right, I’ll make that call,” Alvarez told Gray. “If the money is right, I can fight right now. I don’t give a s—t.”

If the Arizona native comes through this acid test, the demand for Canelo-Benavidez will increase for one of the most highly anticipated fights in boxing history.  

Dmitry Bivol Rematch

Canelo last tasted defeat on May 7, 2022, when he lost by unanimous decision against Dmitry Bivol for the WBA light heavyweight title. Álvarez would surely welcome the chance of redemption against the Tokmak native.

The accuracy from Bivol and his effective jab made it a difficult night for Canelo in their first fight, with the Russian national using his natural heavier stature to control the distance and tempo of the fight.