The exit of Canelo Alvarez from the boxing scene could serve as a significant boost for the super middleweight division.
Alvarez's defeat in September marked a pivotal moment in boxing history, symbolizing not only the end of an era but also opening up opportunities for emerging talents in the super-middleweight category to showcase their potential.
Following Terence Crawford’s retirement in December, after he clinched a decision victory over Alvarez, the belts held by the four major boxing sanctioning bodies were left up for grabs. This has set the stage for a talented array of challengers eager to stake their claim as champions.
One of the most anticipated matchups is on the horizon, with undefeated fighters Hamzah Sheeraz and Diego Pacheco entering a WBO purse bid process. Sheeraz, fresh off a knockout triumph against notable contender Edgar Berlanga, is now gearing up to face California’s Pacheco. The latter, who experienced a mixed bag of results in 2025—including a knockdown in his latest fight—has much to prove.
During a recent episode of ProBox TV’s "BoxingScene Today," analysts Chris Algieri, Paulie Malignaggi, and Robert Garcia expressed their enthusiasm for what lies ahead in the 168-pound division. Upcoming events include a WBC title rematch between Christian Mbilli and Lester Martinez, alongside a WBA title defense by Jose Armando Resendiz against former challenger Jaime Munguia, and an IBF title opportunity for Cuba’s Osleys Iglesias.
Algieri remarked, "The matchups we’re about to witness are incredible for such a dynamic division."
Malignaggi, who has previously criticized Alvarez for hindering progress within the division, added, "His presence was stifling growth here; he was like a cancer to this weight class."
As for Pacheco, who had a less than stellar 2025 leading into his bout with Sheeraz, Garcia emphasized the importance of seriousness in preparation: "Styles make fights. This could be an ideal matchup for him, but he must step up and adjust with his trainer. He needs to take this seriously; it’s a title fight at stake."
Algieri further emphasized the significance of the stakes involved for these young fighters: "They are in their primes, filled with passion and energy, which is fantastic for the sport. It’s refreshing to see young athletes taking risks and competing fiercely."
This sentiment certainly resonates with unbeaten fighters Mbilli and Martinez, who recently delivered a fight-of-the-year caliber performance on the same card that saw Alvarez fall from grace. Although Martinez found success by boxing effectively in the final rounds, Algieri believes a rematch would likely devolve into another intense slugfest, suggesting, "This could also be the fight of the year."
It's worth noting that unlike their previous 10-round encounter, a future title bout between Mbilli and Martinez would extend to 12 rounds, adding extra intrigue.
Meanwhile, Cuba’s Iglesias is in search of an opponent for the IBF title, but that process may unfold slowly. Algieri described him as "a formidable challenge due to his 6-foot-2 frame and power, making him a nightmare for opponents."
In the backdrop, Alvarez is expected to make his return following surgery later this year. Algieri suggested, "His popularity ensures he remains relevant in tough matchups. While it might not be easy for him, perhaps a fight against the winner of Resendiz-Munguia would be suitable. Everything else might be too risky."
This evolving landscape of the super middleweight division leaves fans eager to see how these upcoming bouts unfold—who will rise to the occasion, and who will falter under pressure? What are your thoughts on the current state of the division and the potential matchups? Share your opinions below!
