In an abrupt turn of events, Saul “Canelo” Álvarez, the undisputed 168-pound champion who had been preparing for a showdown with 160-pound titleholder Jermall Charlo, will instead face Charlo’s brother, Jermell, the undisputed 154-pound champion in a clash of four-belt titleholders in September.
Jermall, who has been dealing with significant personal issues, did not believe he would be in the right head space to train properly for a Canelo fight, sources familiar with the situation told Sports Illustrated. Jermall (32–0) has not fought since June 2021, when he claimed a lopsided decision win over Juan Macias Montiel.
Jermell, who has been recovering from a left hand injury, has been out of the ring since May 2022. Jermell (35-1-1) has been preparing for a title defense against Tim Tszyu, the undefeated Australian who has picked up back-to-back knockout wins over Tony Harrison and Carlos Ocampo this year. Instead, Jermell will move up two weight classes to challenge Alvarez (59-2-2), who is coming off a win over John Ryder in May.
Alvarez-Charlo will air on Showtime Pay Per View.
