The biggest question surrounding Canelo Álvarez isn’t whether he’ll fight again, but who will stand opposite him when he returns. After Terence Crawford handed him a decisive defeat in September, the 35-year-old Mexican superstar is taking time to regroup, yet he has already indicated he intends to fight in 2026. With 68 bouts behind him and a legacy already cemented, Canelo’s next step must be the right one. Here are three opponents who make the most sense.
Terence Crawford
Canelo has made it clear: he wants revenge. During a TV Azteca appearance, Álvarez stated his intent to pursue a rematch with the man who relieved him of his undisputed super-middleweight crown. Crawford’s dominance has left a sting that Canelo’s pride won’t ignore. Few observers will expect a different outcome, but the motivation for redemption may push Canelo toward the most difficult road.
Hamzah Sheeraz
Rising star Hamzah Sheeraz has been mentioned frequently within Riyadh Season discussions as a potential Canelo opponent. His explosive win over Edgar Berlanga caught attention, and even with his recent setback, the chance to dethrone a former pound-for-pound king would be career-defining. For Canelo, Sheeraz represents a younger, ambitious challenger and perhaps a winnable yet lucrative fight.
Chris Eubank Jr.
As part of Canelo’s multi-fight deal with Riyadh Season, Chris Eubank Jr. was floated as a 2026 matchup if Canelo had defeated Crawford. Despite both suffering damaging losses in late 2025, the appeal remains. A London stadium event featuring Canelo–Eubank Jr. would be a commercial spectacle, driven by Eubank’s drawing power in the UK. In boxing, some nights are more about the event than the rivalry, and this matchup fits that mould perfectly.
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