Eubank Jr., Mbilli, Sheeraz; Who could Canelo Alvarez fight next after September return confirmed?

Canelo Alvarez has confirmed his return to the ring in 2026, with the star set to headline his own star-studded card on September 12 in Riyadh.

The Mexican superstar, one of the sport's greatest pound-for-pound fighters, was defeated by Terence Crawford four months ago in Las Vegas.

Since then, questions have swirled over his next steps, particularly after his rival retired and scattered the undisputed super-middleweight belts.

Now, his return is locked in for a Mexico Against the World card in Saudi Arabia - but just who should Canelo face off with for his next chapter?

Here, the DAZN News team weighs in on who they would like to see the hard-hitting favourite tackle as he bids to regain his place atop the pile.

Chris Eubank Jr.

DAZN News senior boxing writer Christopher Walker

Canelo Alvarez’s ring return has been confirmed for September this year, and there is likely to be a stack of fighters vying to be in the opposite corner.

Over the next few months, the 168lbs division is set to receive a major makeover with several new world champions about to be crowned.

That means the likes of Hamzah Sheeraz, Diego Pacheco, Osleys Iglesias, and Christian Mbilli are all pushing to be rulers at super-middleweight.

Depending on the outcome of several battles that are currently being negotiated, Canelo could have the pick of many fighters who are newly crowned world champions.

Mark Robinson / Matchroom Boxing

Receiving a straight shot should not be a problem for the legendary Mexican, but as well as those pushing for glory, don't count out dark horse contender Chris Eubank Jr., too.

The Briton has big name value. If Canelo is looking for a dance partner that could bring more eyes to his comeback, then Eubank Jr. could be the man to get the call.

Christian Mbilli

DAZN News correspondent Matt Astbury

For Canelo’s comeback on September 12, it would be fascinating to see how the tough Mexican superstar fares in the ring against France’s Christian Mbilli.

The Frenchman is set to challenge for the vacant WBC super middleweight title. If successful, having a world belt around his waist makes him a prime choice to face.

If the two were to meet in Riyadh, it should be an exciting contest. Mbilli is a fighter who does his in-ring talking with his hands, with 24 of his 29 wins coming by way of knockout.

Hamzah Sheeraz

DAZN News correspondent Andrew Steel

Tipped to become Britain's latest middleweight world champion, Sheeraz scuffed his shot in a draw with WBC champion Carlos Adames last year.

But the star recovered without missing a beat, stepping up to super-middleweight and promptly stunning the division against Edgar Berlanga.

CRIS ESQUEDA/GOLDEN BOY

His ruthless demolition job in New York City put the division on notice, and all signs point to him taking on Diego Pacheco for the WBO crown next.

Prevail there, and Sheeraz is arguably the best live contender in the division that Canelo could face, setting up a mouthwatering potential clash.

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