May 2 title fight with Resendiz puts Munguia back in line at 168 as Canelo eyes a return later this year
Jaime Munguia (45-2) has not ruled out a second fight with Canelo Alvarez as both work back toward titles at 168 pounds. His May 2 bout with Armando Resendiz places him directly in the title picture while Canelo lines up a return later this year.
“I am dead set on being a world champion. I know that Canelo can be a world champion as well. Never say never,” Munguia told Ring Magazine when asked about facing Alvarez again.
Munguia returns May 2 in Las Vegas against WBA super middleweight titleholder Armando Resendiz, a fight that gives him a direct path back into the title picture. He is now training under Eddy Reynoso, the longtime coach of Canelo, adding a layer of interest to his push in the division.
Alvarez is expected to return at 168 pounds later this year following his September loss to Terence Crawford, leaving open the possibility that both could move toward titles on separate tracks.
Their first fight in 2024 ended in a clear decision win for Canelo, who retained the undisputed super middleweight championship. Munguia has since made it clear he is open to a second meeting, but only if both fighters work their way back into position.
If Munguia wins on Saturday night against Resendiz, the “student vs. teacher” storyline with Eddy Reynoso becomes a massive promotional hook.
If Resendiz wins, Canelo gets to fight a fresh Mexican face who currently holds a world title, satisfying his desire to remain a champion while giving the fans a fan-friendly clash.
By targeting this winner, Canelo can secure a world title and a massive commercial event in Riyadh or Las Vegas, all while avoiding the stylistic headaches posed by the division’s other titlists.
It is the definition of “safe” matchmaking, and fans are usually quick to smell that out. If Canelo targets the May 2 winner, it looks like a business decision disguised as a competitive one.