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Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez could find himself in world title contention if he chooses to accept the recent IBF call-up.
The Mexican icon lost his four super middleweight belts to Terence Crawford in Septemberending his five-year reign in the division with his third defeat in 68 fights.
Although he made it clear that he would pursue a rematch against Crawford, The pound-for-pound American star has ended such plans by announcing his retirement from the sport.
Remaining highly ranked in the 168-pound weight class, it was always clear that Alvarez would have no trouble getting another shot at one of the belts once they were dispersed by Crawford’s departure.
The first opportunity to do so has now been provided by the IBF who, according to promoter Camille Estephan, have ordered a fight between the former undisputed champion and rising Cuban contender Osleys Iglesias.
IBF officially ordered: Iglesias vs. Canelo.
The next chapter begins. 🥊 Let’s talk about ending the year well! #EottmArmy#WeFightTogetherpic.twitter.com/689DQ1dGSb— Camille Estephan (@EstephanCamille) December 30, 2025
Southpaw Iglesias, promoted by Estephan’s Eye of the Tiger Management, is 14-0 with 13 knockouts, having most recently stopped Vladimir Shishkin in eight rounds in September.
Official word from the IBF, as well as the timetable for negotiations, remains to come. It also remains to be seen whether or not Canelo’s team will decide to compete, as they could be in the market for a bigger name.
Elsewhere in the division, Hamzah Sheeraz has gained a strong position after being ordered by the WBC and WBO to fight for vacant belts. Queensberry Promotions must now decide which route their fighter will take – take on Christian Mbilli for the WBC strap or Diego Pacheco for the WBO.
