Benavidez Sr. Says Canelo’s Era Is Over Ahead of Mbilli Clash

Jose Benavidez Sr. delivered a stark assessment of Canelo Álvarez’s future, suggesting that WBC champion Christian Mbilli could force the Mexican star into retirement.

The two will meet for Mbilli’s world super‑middleweight title on September 12 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, giving Canelo a chance to regain a belt.

Terence Crawford’s unanimous‑decision win stripped Álvarez of his undisputed crown last September, after which the Mexican underwent elbow surgery.

At 35, many believe Canelo is past his prime and may be only one or two fights away from ending his decorated career.

Nevertheless, most still view him as the favorite against Mbilli, who was promoted from interim to full WBC champion after Crawford’s retirement last year.

Mbilli secured his interim title with a 10‑round draw against Lester Martinez on the undercard of the Canelo‑Crawford bout in Las Vegas.

Canelo has long competed at the sport’s highest level, though some accuse him of avoiding three‑division world champion David Benavidez.

In an interview with Fight Hub TV, Benavidez’s father and trainer, Jose, shared his perspective on the upcoming four‑division champion’s fight with Mbilli.

“I think his era is done – reflexes, speed, power and his legs are not there, so we see Canelo declining little by little.

“It could be another loss for him against Mbilli. Mbilli’s a little bit fresher, but I don’t think he’s an elite fighter.

“At the end of the day, they’re trying to put Canelo in with fighters he can beat.”

While giving Mbilli a sliver of hope, Benavidez appears convinced that the 31‑year‑old has been chosen as a manageable opponent for Canelo.

Source link