Canelo Seeks WBC Belt Redemption Against Rising Champ Mbilli

Mexican boxing superstar Canelo Alvarez eyes WBC super-middleweight title after historic loss to Terence Crawford

Apr. 12, 2026 at 8:52am

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A cubist-style painting depicting a boxing match, with the fighters' forms broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in vibrant colors, capturing the dynamic energy and tension of the anticipated title fight.The impending clash between boxing legend Canelo Alvarez and rising champion Christian Mbilli promises an epic battle for the WBC super-middleweight title.Today in Nashville

The boxing world is abuzz with anticipation as Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez, the Mexican boxing superstar, gears up for his highly anticipated return to the ring. After a historic defeat at the hands of Terence Crawford last September, Canelo is eager to reclaim his glory, and the super-middleweight division is about to get a lot more interesting.

Why it matters

This matchup pits a seasoned veteran against a rising star, as Canelo, a proven legend, seeks to reclaim the WBC super-middleweight title from the current champion, Christian Mbilli. The clash of generations and the regional pride of Mbilli's promoter, Camille Estephan, to keep all five super-middleweight titles in Quebec add unique layers to the story.

The details

Canelo's apparent focus is on the WBC super-middleweight title, currently held by Cameroon-born Christian Mbilli. Mbilli's promoter, Camille Estephan, has confidently stated that Canelo 'wants' the WBC belt back, but Estephan is not one to back down, declaring, 'We will beat him.' The super-middleweight division is heating up, with several significant title fights scheduled in May, which could provide Canelo with new challenges or alternative paths to reclaiming a title.

  • In September 2025, Canelo suffered a historic defeat at the hands of Terence Crawford.
  • Earlier this year, Mbilli was elevated to full WBC super-middleweight champion status.

The players

Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez

A Mexican boxing superstar and a proven legend who has dominated the sport for years.

Christian Mbilli

The current WBC super-middleweight champion, a Cameroon-born fighter who is on the ascent.

Camille Estephan

Mbilli's promoter, who is confident in his fighter's ability to beat Canelo and keep all five super-middleweight titles in Quebec.

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What they’re saying

“We will beat him.”

— Camille Estephan, Mbilli's promoter

What’s next

In May, we'll see two separate title fights, with Jose Armando Resendiz defending his WBA title against Jaime Munguia, and Hamzah Sheeraz and Alem Begic battling for the vacant WBO title. These fights will shape the landscape of the division and could potentially provide Canelo with new challenges or even alternative paths to reclaiming a title.

The takeaway

Canelo's comeback is a testament to the enduring appeal of boxing, where legends can rise again, and every fight is a chance to rewrite history. The upcoming months will be a thrilling ride for boxing enthusiasts, as we witness the return of a living legend and the potential rise of new champions.