Canelo Alvarez Drops Out of the Dmitry Bivol Challenge, Is He Avoiding the Fight or Planning a Bigger Move

The boxing world has been thrown into a frenzy with reports that Canelo Alvarez has decided to step away from a rematch against Dmitry Bivol. This unexpected decision has left fans, analysts, and even fellow fighters questioning his intentions. While some believe Canelo is strategically avoiding a fight that could tarnish his legacy further, others argue that he is simply choosing a different path for his career.

The rivalry between Canelo and Bivol has been one of the most talked-about topics in boxing since their first fight. In their previous encounter, Bivol dominated the undisputed super middleweight champion, securing a clear unanimous decision victory. Since then, a rematch has been rumored, but with Canelo now stepping away, the questions begin: Is he avoiding Bivol, or is there another strategy at play?

Canelo’s First Loss to Bivol: A Reality Check?

When Canelo Alvarez first faced Dmitry Bivol, many believed that the Mexican superstar had the skills and experience to overcome the Russian champion. However, Bivol outclassed him with superior movement, size, and technical skill, exposing weaknesses that had not been seen in Canelo’s previous fights.

This loss was a rare blemish on Canelo’s record, and it immediately led to speculation about whether he could reclaim his dominance with a rematch. While Canelo initially expressed interest in a second fight, the latest developments suggest he may be reconsidering whether that challenge is worth the risk.

Why Canelo Might Be Backing Out

1. The Risk of Another Defeat

Losing to Dmitry Bivol once was a major setback, but losing again could have even greater consequences for Canelo’s legacy. A second defeat would make it clear that Bivol is simply the better fighter, which could damage Canelo’s standing in the sport and affect his ability to secure major fights in the future.

2. Business over Legacy?

Boxing is as much a business as it is a sport, and Canelo is one of its biggest money-makers. A fight with Bivol might not be the most financially rewarding option, especially if it comes with high risk. Canelo may be looking at other opponents who offer high-profile matchups with less chance of defeat.

3. Weight Class Disputes

One of the key issues in a rematch between Canelo and Bivol has been the weight class. Canelo’s camp wanted the fight to take place at super middleweight (168 lbs), where Canelo is undisputed, while Bivol insisted on keeping the fight at light heavyweight (175 lbs), where he holds the WBA belt. The two sides have not been able to agree, leading to more delays and uncertainty.

4. Health and Wear-and-Tear

Canelo has been in many tough battles over his long career, and injuries may be playing a role in his decision. There have been reports of Canelo dealing with lingering wrist and knee issues, which could make a physically demanding fight against Bivol even more difficult.

Dmitry Bivol’s Response: A Challenge Unanswered

Since Canelo’s withdrawal, Dmitry Bivol has not held back his frustration. The Russian champion has repeatedly stated that he was ready and willing to fight Canelo under almost any conditions, including at super middleweight.

Bivol’s confidence in a second victory is evident, and he has made it clear that he believes Canelo should honor his word and accept the challenge. Some boxing analysts argue that Canelo backing out is a sign that he knows he cannot beat Bivol, while others think he is simply weighing his options carefully.

What’s Next for Canelo?

If Canelo is not fighting Bivol, the question becomes who he will face next. There are several big name opponents who could be on his radar, including:

1. David Benavidez, The Mexican Monster

David Benavidez has been calling out Canelo for years, and fans have been eager to see the two warriors clash. Benavidez is an undefeated former super middleweight champion known for his aggressive style and relentless pressure. Many believe he has the tools to give Canelo one of the toughest fights of his career.

2. Jermall Charlo: The Unfinished Business

Canelo recently fought Jermell Charlo, the undisputed super welterweight champion, and dominated him. However, Charlo’s twin brother, Jermall Charlo, the WBC middleweight champion, is still waiting for his chance to fight Canelo. This could be a high-profile event that brings significant pay-per-view interest.

3. Terence Crawford: A Superfight

There has been growing speculation that Canelo Alvarez could face Terence Crawford, the undisputed welterweight champion, in what would be a true “superfight.” Crawford has expressed interest in moving up in weight to challenge Canelo, and with both fighters being undisputed in their divisions, it would be a historic matchup.

What’s Next for Dmitry Bivol?

If Canelo is truly out of the picture, Bivol will have to look for other big fights. Some potential opponents include:

1. Artur Beterbiev—The Light Heavyweight Showdown

A fight between Bivol and Artur Beterbiev would be one of the most exciting matchups in boxing. Beterbiev is an undefeated knockout artist who holds the WBC, IBF, and WBO light heavyweight belts. A fight between him and Bivol would crown the undisputed light heavyweight champion.

2. A Mandatory Challenger

If Bivol does not get a high-profile fight, he may have to defend his WBA title against a mandatory opponent, which could be a less exciting but necessary step.

Canelo Alvarez is one of boxing’s biggest global superstars, and every decision he makes carries significant weight. Whether it’s about legacy, business, or personal strategy, stepping away from the Dmitry Bivol reunion sends a message. But what exactly is that message?

Is Canelo avoiding dangerous fights?

There is a growing debate among fans and boxing analysts about whether Canelo is strategically avoiding high-risk fights. His decision to back out of a bivol rematch follows a pattern where he has chosen opponents who are seen as more “winnable” fights.

However, Canelo has always taken on tough challenges, from fighting Floyd Mayweather early in his career to moving up in weight to face Sergey Kovalev and Bivol. If he decides not to fight Bivol again, it might not be about fear but rather about choosing the right battles for his long-term career.

Financial Impact: Is There a Bigger Payday Elsewhere?

Boxing is a business, and Canelo’s fights generate millions of dollars in revenue. A rematch with Bivol, while significant, may not bring the same excitement as a superfight against an American star like Terence Crawford or Jermall Charles.

Fighters like David Benavidez also present a major pay-per-view opportunity, especially with the potential to market it as a Mexico vs. Mexico battle. If Canelo is prioritizing business over risk, he may be looking at where the biggest payday awaits.

Final Thoughts: Will We Ever See Canelo vs. Bivol 2?

While Canelo’s withdrawal from the rematch seems final for now, boxing history has shown that big fights always have a way of happening eventually. Whether it’s in a year or two, if the demand remains high, Canelo and Bivol may still cross paths again. Until then, the boxing world will be watching closely to see what the next move for both fighters will be.

Conclusion: Avoidance or Strategy?

Canelo Alvarez stepping away from the Dmitry Bivol rematch has created a heated debate. Some believe he is avoiding the fight because he knows the risk of losing again, while others argue that he is making a smart career decision to pursue bigger money fights.

Whatever the reason, this decision will shape the next chapter of Canelo’s legacy. Will he eventually fight Bivol again, or will he choose a different path that leads to even greater challenges? The boxing world will be watching closely to see what happens next.