Canelo Alvarez has expressed his desire for a rematch with Dmitry Bivol in May 2025, assuming Bivol successfully defeats Artur Beterbiev in their highly anticipated undisputed light heavyweight championship fight on October 12th. However, Canelo must first overcome Edgar Berlanga in their clash on September 14th to keep his plans intact. Alvarez, who suffered a unanimous decision loss to Bivol in May 2022, seems determined to avenge that defeat, although many believe his primary focus is not Beterbiev, a dangerous puncher, but rather Bivol, whom Canelo views as a more manageable challenge.

While Canelo has remained vague about a potential fight with Beterbiev, he appears to be zeroing in on Bivoldue for the safer prospect of losing by decision rather than knockout. Bivol, known for his technical skills rather than power, represents a lower-risk option for Alvarez compared to the heavy-handed Beterbiev. Canelo's desire to rematch Bivol could also be a strategic move to block David Benavidez's path to undisputed status, as Benavidez has been eyeing the winner of Bivol vs. Beterbiev.

However, whether this rematch happens depends largely on external factors, particularly whether Bivol can defeat Beterbiev and whether Turki Alalshikh, who has been a key financial backer of recent boxing events, supports the bout. There's also speculation that if Bivol defeats Beterbiev, he may have to face Benavidez instead. As Canelo aims for the rematch, it's clear that he remains haunted by his loss to Bivol and sees the opportunity as a legacy-defining moment.

If Canelo were to win the rematch against Bivol, it would solidify his standing as one of the sport’s greats, potentially making him undisputed in a second weight class. However, given Bivol’s dominance in their first fight, Alvarez would enter the ring as a clear underdog. Canelo’s hand injury excuse from their first encounter seems to carry little weight, as the size and conditioning of Bivol were the decisive factors in the outcome.

Ultimately, Canelo's interest in the rematch may have more to do with securing a big payday, courtesy of Alalshikh's backing, while having a built-in excuse if things don’t go his way. By taking the fight, Canelo could also spoil Benavidez’s ambitions, adding another layer of intrigue to the potential showdown.

Read more about Bivol's career by clicking here.

Image Credit: Sky Sports