Promoter Dmitry Salita believes that Vladimir Shishkin is the ideal opponent for Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez to prepare for a rematch against Dmitry Bivol.
Canelo lost to Bivol last May as he challenged for the WBA light heavyweight career in a dramatic upset, but Bivol proved his worth again in November 2022 with another dominant display, this time against Gilberto ‘Zurdo’ Ramirez.
The undisputed super middleweight champion went on to defeat Gennadiy Golovkin in their trilogy rematch, and is making a comeback to full fitness after surgery. He traditionally fights on Cinco de Mayo weekend, but no further fight for the Mexican has been announced.
Bivol is currently hoping to organise an undisputed clash with Artur Beterbiev, meaning Canelo may need to find another bout to stay busy, and Shishkin has been suggested by Salita.
The promoter explained that Shishkin, who last fought at 168lbs but has fought heavier before in his career, has a similar style to his compatriot Bivol.
“Canelo Alvarez will want to avenge his defeat to Dmitriy Bivol this year after he suffered a clear defeat,” he told Ice36.
“Vladimir Shishkin, who proved his pedigree in 2022 beating Jose Uzcategui and positioning himself as the IBF mandatory, has a style very similar to Bivol.
“If Canelo and Eddie Reynoso want to build towards a Bivol rematch later this year, Shiskin makes the most sense. Shishkin, though, is coming to upset the odds.”