Canelo Alvarez reveals return plan as he eyes stunning Terence Crawford rematch with talks underway
Canelo Alvarez has now suggested he wants a shot at revenge against Terence Crawford in 2026.
The Mexican was comprehensively outclassed in his huge showdown with Crawford in September, which saw him dethroned as undisputed super-middleweight champion.
It was a crossroads for the Mexican superstar who is now facing a new challenge, getting back on track after a seven-year streak of holding a title.
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Initially, it appeared that the pair would move on from their rivalry given the largely one-sided nature of the first clash.
But now Alvarez has bravely suggested he is ready for redemption in 2026.
That is according to Mexican outlet TV Azteca, who declared preliminary talks were already being held.
They wrote: “Before the end of 2025, Canelo Alvarez was on a visit to TV Azteca in his home and talked about the plans for the next year, where he will embark on different sports projects.
“In addition, he reiterated that his priority above the ring is the rematch against Terence Crawford, who is already negotiating, and wants to accommodate the place.”
It will be an uphill battle for Alvarez if he is to turn around the momentum and become the first fighter to beat Crawford.
Alvarez was also linked with a UK showdown with Chris Eubank Jr, but the Briton was beaten by Conor Benn in their rematch and it appears Crawford is one of his only options.
What is next for Terence Crawford and will he fight Canelo again?
As for Crawford, he has yet to commit his next move and has not commented publicly on a sequel with Alvarez.
Immediately after his victory, Crawford teased both retirement and a move to 160lbs.
Since then, Crawford has indicated he is indeed open to making new history in the new weight class.
And he suggested his most likely return option could well be against unified middleweight world champion Janibek Alimkhanuly, who he is open to facing in March.
Can Canelo beat Crawford?
On viewing the maiden clash, Alvarez will need to show drastic improvement and put in a career-best display to better Crawford.
But his worrying admission after the clash makes it an even harder task to pick the Mexican if the pair touch gloves again.
He said: “We knew Crawford is a great fighter. I did what I was supposed to do I tried every way.
“I tried very hard. He deserves all the credit. I tried my best.
“I just couldn’t figure out his style. He has everything.”
Alvarez has completed it all in boxing, but is expected to complete his four-fight deal with Turki Alalshikh before considering retirement.
And a new shot at Crawford could well be one last hoorah at leaving the sport on top.
