Canelo Alvarez shocks boxing world by training with Dmitry Bivol: a step towards redemption at light heavyweight?

Canelo Alvarez has shocked the boxing world once again, but this time not with a knockout or a championship win, but with a decision that has left fans and analysts in disbelief. The undisputed super middleweight champion has been spotted training alongside Dmitry Bivol, the same man who handed him his most decisive defeat in recent years. This unexpected move raises a crucial question: Is Canelo planning a return to the light heavyweight division to redeem himself?

There has been no official statement or grand announcement from Alvarez. However, the mere sight of Canelo working with Bivol suggests his business at 175 pounds is far from over. For a fighter who has already cemented his legacy in multiple weight classes, this move signals a possible attempt to rewrite one of the few stains on his record.

Bivol outpointed Canelo in May 2022, successfully defending his WBA light heavyweight title in a fight that exposed Canelo’s limitations against a bigger, highly skilled technician. That night, the Mexican superstar had a difficult time imposing his aggressive style, as Bivol’s footwork, defense, and timely counters kept him at bay. The loss was decisive, though not humiliating, more a testament to Bivol’s mastery than any major flaw in Canelo’s skill set.

Since then, Canelo has remained dominant at super middleweight, defending his undisputed crown, while Bivol has continued to prove himself to be one of the most disciplined and calculating fighters at 175 pounds. Meanwhile, the light heavyweight division is gearing up for one of its biggest fights in years: a rematch for the undisputed title between Bivol and Artur Beterbiev on February 22 in Saudi Arabia. Their first meeting was a closely contested battle, with Beterbiev’s relentless pressure ultimately swaying the judges and allowing them to earn a majority decision victory. However, many still believe Bivol’s counterpunching and tactical execution were enough to win.

This upcoming rematch carries huge implications, not only for the two fighters involved, but for Canelo as well. Sparring with Bivol could serve multiple purposes. On one hand, it offers him the chance to absorb the knowledge of a fighter who executed the perfect game plan against him. On the other hand, it could be a strategic positioning move, a way for Canelo to gain inside information on Bivol, should they ever meet in a rematch.

Could Canelo be eyeing the winner of Bivol vs. Beterbiev for another shot at light heavyweight glory? His previous comments have always left the door open for a return to 175 pounds, but his decision to train with Bivol takes that possibility to a whole new level.

Beterbiev remains one of the most feared punchers in boxing, having stopped every opponent he has faced. His relentless power and suffocating pressure make him a nightmare for anyone in the division. Bivol, on the other hand, is the only man who has proven he can withstand that pressure. If he can make the right adjustments and avoid getting drawn into a shootout, he has a real chance of regaining his belts.

For Canelo, this training move could be the first step in an even bigger plan. Whether it leads to a rematch with Bivol, a shot at Beterbiev, or just a better understanding of the light heavyweight landscape, one thing is certain: Canelo Alvarez is far from done with this division. If he decides to face any of these champions in the near future, his latest decision may prove to be the smartest move of his career.