Canelo Alvarez Undergoes Elbow Surgery, Delays Return to Boxing Until 2026

What's Happening?

Mexican boxer Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez has undergone elbow surgery following his recent fight against American Terence Crawford for the undisputed super middleweight title. The surgery is expected to keep Alvarez out of the ring until at least the second quarter of 2026. The fight, which took place on September 14 in Las Vegas, ended with Crawford winning by unanimous decision, making him the undisputed super middleweight champion. Alvarez's rehabilitation is projected to take at least two months, with a return to boxing anticipated 12 to 15 weeks post-operation. Alvarez holds a professional record of 63 wins, 3 losses, and 2 draws, while Crawford remains undefeated with 42 wins.

Why It's Important?

Canelo Alvarez's absence from boxing until 2026 is significant for the sport, as he is one of the most prominent figures in boxing today. His hiatus could impact the super middleweight division, potentially opening opportunities for other fighters to rise in prominence. The delay in his return might also affect promotional events and revenue streams associated with his fights, as Alvarez is known for drawing large audiences. For Terence Crawford, the victory solidifies his status as a top contender in the sport, potentially leading to more high-profile matches in the future. Fans and stakeholders in the boxing community will be closely watching how the division evolves in Alvarez's absence.

What's Next?

As Alvarez recovers, the super middleweight division may see shifts in rankings and potential matchups. Promoters and fighters will likely strategize to fill the void left by Alvarez's temporary departure. Crawford, now the undisputed champion, may seek to defend his title against other top contenders, which could lead to exciting matchups in the coming months. Alvarez's team will focus on his rehabilitation, ensuring a full recovery before planning his return to the ring. The boxing community will be eager to see how Alvarez's comeback is orchestrated and who his next opponent will be.