Canelo Alvarez Edges Closer to Retirement, Paving Way for David Benavidez: “It’s His Time”

Ronald Crawley Jan. 6, 2026, 7:10 p.m.

Attention turns to David Benavidez as a potential successor. The unbeaten fighter will face Gilberto 'Zurdo' Ramírez on May 2 in Las Vegas, stepping up to cruiserweight. Saul Trujano, an ESPN analyst, expects big things from Benavidez. Describing him as one of the best pound-for-pound fighters today, Trujano highlights that this upcoming bout represents more than just another fight; it tests Benavidez in terms of ratings and pay-per-view sales too.

Others on Trujano's radar include Rafael 'Divino' Espinoza, Emanuel 'Vaquero' Navarrete, and Isaac 'Pitbull' Cruz. Trujano poses a crucial question: Can these Mexican contenders deliver a better performance than Canelo has throughout his illustrious career? The answer unfolds in the coming years.

Canelo himself refocuses on recovery through activities like golfing while strategizing for a potential rematch with Crawford. With conversations already swirling about a transition toward new leaders in world boxing around 2026, Canelo’s exit opens a path for fresh faces in the industry’s spotlight. According to reports from [ESPN](https://www.espn.com), this changing landscape promises excitement for fans eager to see what the future holds for Mexican boxing champions.

Share

More Stories