Saul “Canelo” Alvarez is scheduled for an operation on his left elbow on October 23. This procedure aims to address loose cartilage and bone fragments within the joint, resulting from injuries sustained during his confrontation with Terence Crawford on September 13.
Saul’s Scheduled Operation on October 23
According to reports from Mike Coppinger, Alvarez will require a sling for approximately one to one and a half months following the surgery on October 23. This recovery period is expected to delay his return to the ring until approximately mid-2026.
Assuming Alvarez (63-3-2, 39 KOs) experiences no complications during his recovery, he is anticipated to be ready to compete between May and September. Fans are eager to observe his performance following his defeat to Crawford (42-0, 31 KOs) by unanimous decision over 12 rounds.
It is important that Turki Alalshikh does not pressure Alvarez into facing another fighter who relies heavily on movement, as Alvarez has already encountered two such opponents consecutively. His previous match was against William Scull on May 3, 2025, where he had to pursue Scull extensively around the ring to secure a 12-round unanimous decision victory.
Crawford, 38, was expected to offer a different style, but he employed a similar strategy of constant movement, resembling Scull’s approach. There was little difference between the two in this aspect. Crawford engaged slightly more in the final four rounds compared to Scull, which was enough to win a decision. The match was not particularly captivating.
Commentator’s Perspective: Crawford’s Investment
Turki’s investment in Crawford was a misallocation of resources. To develop boxing, as he intends, he should have supported a younger fighter with a longer-term future rather than Crawford. Crawford’s career is nearing its end.
Investing in a fighter nearing retirement, known for employing evasive tactics, is not a strategic move. Using those funds on David Benavidez would not only have drawn a larger audience for a potential Alvarez fight but also would have helped establish a star with at least a decade of potential.
Benavidez, at 28, has a promising future. Investing in the Mexican Monster would have been a worthwhile endeavor. Turki could have used that money to enhance the offer to Alvarez, encouraging him to accept the challenge.
With unlimited financial resources, I would prioritize organizing a match between Alvarez and Benavidez. This fight would offer:
- Greater significance
- Enhanced entertainment value
- The opportunity to build a new star
A rematch with Crawford or Dmitry Bivol would not be beneficial for Alvarez, given his difficulty in dealing with their constant movement. He needs opponents who are willing to engage directly.
Commentator Isaac has been providing boxing coverage since 2020, offering readers astute ringside observations and current analysis of the sport’s most significant events.
