An undefeated champion in the world of boxing has set his sights on a high-profile clash with Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez, one of the sport's most celebrated figures. Known for his illustrious career spanning 66 professional fights, Canelo boasts an impressive record that includes titles across four weight divisions and the undisputed super middleweight championship. Having faced numerous top-tier opponents such as Gennady Golovkin, Miguel Cotto, and Sergey Kovalev, he remains a dominant force despite a setback against Dmitry Bivol in 2022. As Canelo gears up for his next challenge against Terence Crawford, another rising star has called out the Mexican legend for a potential showdown.
The WBO and IBF middleweight champion, Janibek Alimkhanuly, is making waves with his bold statement targeting Canelo. Hailing from Kazakhstan, this 31-year-old fighter has positioned himself as a formidable contender who seeks only the best matchups. In an interview with Boxing Scene, Janibek expressed his preference for moving up to the super middleweight division at 168lbs to face Canelo rather than pursuing undisputed status at 160lbs. He confidently stated that weight adjustments pose no significant barrier for him due to his physical capabilities.
Janibek's immediate focus lies on defending his unified middleweight titles against France's Anauel Ngamissengue in Astana on April 5. This bout marks his first title defense since defeating Vincenzo Gualtieri last October. However, timing might not align favorably for Janibek as Canelo's schedule is packed throughout 2025. Following his May encounter with William Scull aimed at regaining undisputed status, Canelo is slated to face Terence Crawford in September if all plans proceed smoothly.
In the ever-evolving landscape of professional boxing, the anticipation surrounding these potential matchups continues to grow. While Canelo navigates through his committed engagements, Janibek's determination to prove himself against the elite remains unwavering. The boxing community eagerly awaits developments that could bring these two powerhouses together in what promises to be an unforgettable contest, showcasing the pinnacle of skill and resilience in the sport.