Saúl “Canelo” Alvarez says he’s still frustrated that fans never got the rematch with Terence Crawford that many expected after their blockbuster showdown last year.
According to Ring Magazine, the two boxing stars recently crossed paths in Egypt for a promotional appearance near the Pyramids of Giza, reigniting discussion around Crawford’s victory over Alvarez and the abrupt ending to what could have become one of boxing’s biggest rivalries. Instead of negotiating a second fight, Crawford walked away from the sport in December at age 38, leaving Alvarez disappointed that the story ended after just one meeting.
“That’s sad, because I think the people deserve the rematch,” Alvarez told reporters. “But things happen and I am going to look forward to my career.”
Crawford’s win over Alvarez immediately became one of the defining moments of 2025 boxing. Moving up two weight classes, Crawford defeated the longtime Mexican superstar by unanimous decision to capture the undisputed super middleweight championship.
Now recovering from left elbow surgery he underwent in October, Alvarez says the loss forced him to reevaluate both his preparation and his physical condition. “I learned a lot,” he said. “I learned my lesson, and this time I took the time to take care of my body, my injuries, and all my stuff. I feel great. I can't wait to come back. I'm ready now.”
Alvarez is scheduled to return on September 12 in Saudi Arabia, where he’ll challenge undefeated WBC champion Christian Mbilli atop a card promoted as “Mexico vs. The World.”
Mbilli enters the fight with a 29-0-1 record and a reputation for aggressive pressure fighting, which Alvarez acknowledged during the matchup discussion. “He’s a good fighter. He comes forward. He throws a lot of punches. He’s young, and we are going to find out,” Alvarez said.
The latest comments also arrive as David Benavidez continues to publicly push for a long-discussed fight with Alvarez following his recent stoppage win over Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez in the cruiserweight division. Benavidez used that victory to once again call out Alvarez, who remains one of boxing’s biggest commercial draws despite recent setbacks. Alvarez brushed aside the latest challenge while still giving Benavidez credit for his performance.
“Every single boxer from every division, they are calling me out,” Alvarez said. “I’m not surprised. It’s nothing new for me, but Benavidez did good in the fight.”
Even after losses to both Crawford and Dmitry Bivol in recent years, Alvarez remains one of the sport’s most influential figures. He said his motivation hasn’t changed despite already accomplishing nearly everything possible in boxing.
“I achieved pretty much everything in boxing,” Alvarez said. “But I still enjoy it.”
