Bob Arum will “do whatever it takes” to secure Canelo’s fight for the rising star: “He beats him”

Saul “Canelo” Alvarez has yet to suffer a defeat in the super middleweight division.

The Mexican suffered his only two losses in a 66-fight season early on against Floyd Mayweather and in 2022 against Dmitry Bivol in the light heavyweight division.

In the 168-pound division, Alvarez fought his way to undisputed status against the likes of Callum Smith, Billy Joe Saunders and Caleb Plant. After being stripped of one belt, the IBF belt, for failing to face his mandatory challenger, he most recently defended his unified titles in a routine points victory over previously unbeaten Edgar Berlanga.

There are other challengers like Berlanga waiting for their chance, not least Christian Mbilli (28-0). The Cameroonian-French super middleweight has 23 early wins and currently holds the WBC Continental and WBA International titles.

Speaking to Maestro A ahead of his recent win over the notoriously tough Sergiy Derevyanchenko, veteran promoter Bob Arum said Mbilli could challenge the top dog after one more fight.

“Mbilli really fits in very well with our plans. What is the game plan? Well, he has to face top fighters. This fight, maybe one more and then we will do everything we can to put him against Canelo Alvarez. Canelo is really a great fighter, but Christian is still coming and I think that would be a big event if we arrange that fight.”

In a separate interview with Boxing News, Arum talked about Mbilli’s chances not only against the champion, but also against David Benavidez.

“We really believe that Mbilli would give Canelo one hell of a fight. I think he would beat Canelo, but either way, it would be a really good fight. I also think that Mbilli would be very competitive with Benavidez… he really is a force to be reckoned with.”

Where Canelo goes next is unclear. He is expected to receive offers to face both Terence Crawford and David Benavidez, but he himself is looking to avenge his loss to Dmitry Bivol and move up to light heavyweight once again.

Whatever happens, it's hard to see Mbilli getting the goal, despite Arum's considerable support. While he waits, fans would love to see him in the team led by Berlanga and Jaime Munguia.