Dmitry Bivol is the favourite to face Canelo Alvarez. It appeared highly likely that Canelo would partake in a unification clash with America’s Caleb Plant but those plans were thwarted due to a breakdown in negotiations.
With Alvarez's career spanning three divisions in recent times, a number of potential opponents have been discussed ranging from David Benavidez to Artur Beterbiev. Bivol, the WBA ruler at 175lbs is promoted by Matchroom and Eddie Hearn, believes the Russian is in pole position to land a big opportunity against the great Mexican.
“Bivol is the front runner, in my opinion for that slot on September the 18th, said Hearn when speaking on The DAZN Boxing Show. “I think if it's not Bivol, then I think there's a very good chance that September 18 will be put on hold, and we'll move on to another date and potentially another opponent.
“Now I'll reiterate that he wants that Plant fight, you know, it's the undisputed fight but he also wants to face other champions. So, we've been in touch with Dmitry and they're ready to fight Canelo Alvarez on September the 18th. They've been sort of training really for the last two or three weeks in the hope that they do get that pick.”