In the bustling world of professional boxing, as Canelo Alvarez gears up for a monumental showdown with Terence Crawford on September 13th, the International Boxing Federation (IBF) has already begun planning his next challenge. Promoter Camille Estephan revealed that the IBF has mandated a match between unbeaten contender Osleys Iglesias and former title aspirant Vladimir Shishkin. This bout will determine who becomes the mandatory challenger for Alvarez's undisputed super-middleweight crown.

A Key Match to Define Alvarez's Next Opponent

Amidst the vibrant anticipation surrounding Alvarez's future fights, Eye of the Tiger Management’s head, Camille Estephan, disclosed negotiations with Dmitriy Salita, Shishkin's manager, aiming to stage this pivotal fight by July in Canada. Osleys Iglesias, known for his impressive knockout record, is eager to prove himself against bigger names. The Cuban sensation, undefeated at 13-0 with 12 knockouts, has become a formidable force at 168 lbs. Meanwhile, Vladimir Shishkin, ranked second by the IBF, seeks redemption after his first career loss to William Scull in October 2024. Both fighters are highly regarded in the Ring Magazine rankings, highlighting their potential to challenge Alvarez.

From a journalist's perspective, the decision to organize this fight underscores the IBF's commitment to maintaining competitive boxing standards. It also raises intriguing questions about how these emerging talents might impact Alvarez's reign. For fans, it promises an exciting era ahead where new champions could emerge from these crucial matchups, ultimately shaping the future landscape of super-middleweight boxing.