Canelo Alvarez and the Tough Choices Waiting at 168

Canelo Alvarez is now without a clear opponent for September 2026 and needs someone he can face as he looks to work his way back to the top of the super middleweight division.

The options are not easy for the 35-year-old Mexican star. There are no soft paths to titles at 168 anymore, like there were earlier in his run. The decision now comes down to whether Canelo prioritises financial upside or a more competitive challenge.

Several super middleweight titles are expected to come back into play, and Canelo’s standing in the division gives him flexibility. He is ranked highly with the sanctioning bodies and has the leverage to position himself for a title fight without being tied to a single route.

Canelo’s Options at 168

• Osleys Iglesias
• Hamzah Sheeraz
• Christian Mbilli
• Lester Martinez
• Diego Pacheco
• Jose Armando Resendiz

Market Considerations

From a business standpoint, Hamzah Sheeraz stands out. He has already fought on multiple Riyadh Season cards, making him a familiar name to that market. That connection alone could make him an attractive option for a September fight if the right deal is available.

That does not mean Sheeraz is the most proven choice. He has only fought once at super middleweight, against Edgar Berlanga, which did little to answer questions about how he performs against elite pressure at 168. His fight with Carlos Adames earlier this year also exposed defensive issues that stronger opponents could exploit.

If Canelo is focused on taking on real risk, Osleys Iglesias, Christian Mbilli, and Lester Martinez present tougher stylistic problems. All three are aggressive fighters with power who would force sustained work over twelve rounds.

Against opponents like that, Canelo would not be able to fight in short bursts and manage the pace late. He would be under steady pressure throughout the fight, facing younger fighters who are prepared to engage consistently rather than pick moments.

Where Christian Mbilli Fits

From an entertainment standpoint, Mbilli stands out. He has been positioned near the top of the division for an extended period, holding interim status and waiting for a title opportunity while Canelo pursued other options. A fight like that would answer real questions about where Canelo stands against the next wave at 168.

Each option comes with trade-offs, and timing may ultimately determine which fight materialises.