Canelo Alvarez and the Eubank Jr.-Benn Saga
Turki Alalshikh, the visionary promoter and managing director of Matchroom Boxing, has big plans for Canelo Alvarez, the unified super middleweight champion. Alalshikh envisions Canelo fighting the eventual winner of the highly anticipated Chris Eubank Jr. and Conor Benn bouts in 2026. These two British fighters will face off twice, with the first clash set for April 26th at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London. While the idea of Canelo squaring up against one of these stars in the near future has sparked excitement among UK boxing fans, it has also raised eyebrows and generated controversy.
The Fan’s Perspective
Fans, particularly those in the United States, have voiced their discontent. They argue that Canelo, a fighter known for his high-caliber contests and world-class opposition, should be pitted against the likes of David Benavidez, a proven and formidable contender in the super middleweight division. The prospect of Canelo facing either Eubank Jr. or Benn is seen as a step down from his usual standard. Both Eubank Jr. (34-3, 25 KOs) and Benn (23-0, 14 KOs) are respected in the UK but are not universally regarded as elite fighters. Their careers have been marked by a lack of significant international competition and a reliance on the British boxing scene, which has led to skepticism about their readiness for a world title shot.
The Business of Boxing
The proposed fight between Canelo and the Eubank Jr.-Benn winner is symptomatic of a broader shift in the boxing world—from sport to business. This trend is also evident in Terence Crawford’s move up two weight classes to challenge Canelo for his three belts at 168 pounds in September. The essence of these matches lies more in their commercial appeal and star power than in the traditional sporting narrative. By labeling these matches as business-level fights, Turki can more accurately set expectations and perhaps avoid the criticism that often accompanies such cross-promotional efforts.
The Legacy of British Boxing
British boxing has a rich history and a passionate fan base. Eubank Jr. and Benn, sons of legendary British fighters, have capitalized on their heritage and become significant figures in the UK boxing scene. Despite their notable records and local fame, they have not consistently faced top-tier international competition. This has led to a perception among many U.S. fans that they are more comfortable in the British arena and have not proven themselves at the highest level of the sport. However, the draw of British fans is undeniable, and Turki’s plan to feature the Eubank Jr.-Benn winner against Canelo is a strategic move to ensure substantial pay-per-view (PPV) numbers and maintain Canelo’s winning streak.
Canelo’s Four-Fight Deal
Canelo recently signed a lucrative four-fight deal with Turki Alalshikh, and the matches are carefully planned to maximize commercial success and maintain his status as one of the sport’s biggest draws. Here’s a breakdown of his upcoming fights:
- William Scull – Canelo’s first bout under the new deal is an undisputed clash against William Scull on May 3rd, 2025, in Riyadh. This fight is crucial for solidifying his legacy in the super middleweight division.
- Terence Crawford – On September 13th, 2025, Canelo is set to face Terence Crawford in the United States. Crawford, known for his technical brilliance, presents a significant challenge that is expected to captivate boxing fans worldwide.
- Eubank Jr. vs. Benn 2 Winner – In 2026, Canelo will take on the winner of the second Eubank Jr.-Benn fight. This match is designed to leverage the local popularity of both fighters and ensure a strong PPV performance.
- Unknown – The fourth match in the deal remains a mystery, but it is likely to be another high-profile contest that aligns with Turki’s business strategy.
Conclusion
While the decision to have Canelo fight the winner of the Eubank Jr.-Benn bouts in 2026 is a shrewd business move, it does raise questions about the integrity and competitive nature of the sport. Boxing, at its core, is about pitting the best against the best, and many fans would prefer to see Canelo face top contenders like David Benavidez. However, the realities of the boxing business often prioritize commercial success over pure sporting competition. As Canelo continues his quest for greatness, it remains to be seen whether these strategically planned matches will satisfy both his fans and his legacy.
