Canelo Alvarez is reportedly set to make his long-awaited return following his loss to Terence Crawford. Reports suggest that the Mexican star is scheduled to face WBC world super middleweight champion Christian Mbilli in September in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Since the bout was first reported, many pundits have already criticised Alvarez for choosing Mbilli as an opponent while dismissing the reigning champion’s chances. Now, Hamzah Sheeraz has joined the ongoing conversation and shared his thoughts on the fight.
Sheeraz believes Alvarez would have little trouble defeating Mbilli in their reported showdown.
Mbilli is widely viewed as one of the division’s most dangerous knockout artists. The unbeaten fighter has repeatedly called for bigger opportunities against elite names, and now he has finally received his chance. He holds a professional record of 29 wins, 24 by knockout, highlighting the threat he brings into the fight.
However, Sheeraz does not believe the contest would remain competitive for very long.
Hamzah Sheeraz predicts early Canelo Alvarez knockout
In his recent interview with the Ring Magazine, Sheeraz explained why he expects Canelo to stop Mbilli inside six rounds if the fight ever happens.
“I believe that he knocks Mbilli out within six rounds,” Sheeraz said.
According to the British contender, stylistic differences would strongly favor the Mexican superstar despite Mbilli’s aggressive style and power.
“Styles make fights at the end of the day,” Sheeraz explained.
Although Sheeraz praised Mbilli and acknowledged his achievements, he still believes Canelo’s experience and counter-punching ability would prove too much.
“No disrespect to Mbilli; great champion, great fighter,” Sheeraz added.
“But I believe that Canelo knocks him out within six rounds, only because styles make fights.”
As for Sheeraz, he has been calling out Alvarez, expressing his desire to face the Mexican star; however, he’s never gotten the opportunity. He is scheduled to take on Alem Begic for the vacant WBO world super middleweight title on May 23 at the Pyramids of Giza.
Mbilli seen as dangerous opponent for Canelo
Mbilli has emerged as one of the fastest-rising fighters in the super middleweight division over the last few years. Known for his relentless pressure and knockout power, the Frenchman was elevated to full champion in January following Crawford’s retirement.
Many boxing fans believe Mbilli represents one of the more dangerous stylistic challenges available at 168 pounds because of his aggressive approach. That said, several pundits believe it will go against him, as Alvarez will knock him out with his counterpunching.
Meanwhile, Sheeraz’s prediction adds another interesting perspective to the ongoing debate surrounding how Mbilli would fare against boxing’s biggest star.
For now, no official fight between Canelo and Mbilli has been announced. It could be announced in a few weeks, and their first face-off is expected to take place during the fight week of Oleksandr Usyk vs Rico Verhoeven on May 23 at the Pyramids of Giza.
