Canelo’s Injury and Recovery Timeline: When Will Alvarez Return?

According to The Ring, former two-time undisputed champion Saul “Canelo” Alvarez will not return to the ring until the second or third quarter of 2026.

Canelo’s team revealed details of his injury:

“Canelo has been diagnosed with loose bodies in his left elbow. After thorough evaluation and medical consultation with an orthopedic surgeon, he is scheduled for an arthroscopic procedure on the left elbow to remove the loose bodies.

Following the procedure, his orthopedic surgeon recommends using a sling for a short period. His rehabilitation program is expected to allow him to resume light training within 4–6 weeks. The prognosis is excellent, and he is expected to make a full recovery and return to world championship-level boxing.

We appreciate the continued support from fans and the boxing community during his recovery process.”

At present, Alvarez (63-3-2, 39 KOs) still has two fights remaining on his Riyadh Season contract. His return, originally planned for winter 2025 following the loss to Terence Crawford, has now been postponed.