Why Canelo Lost One of His Titles? Federation Explained



The International Boxing Federation (IBF) announced that the undisputed super middleweight champion (up to 76.2 kg) Saul Alvarez (61-2-2, 39 KO) no longer holds the IBF title.

"The period for Saul Alvarez to make a mandatory defense of his IBF super middleweight world title has expired. The fight scheduled for September 14 (against Edgar Berlanga) does not meet this requirement.

IBF places the utmost importance on preserving the title. Additionally, we appreciate and understand the significance of the undisputed champion status for a boxer like Saul Alvarez, the sport, and the fans. We understand that Saul Alvarez and his team have chosen the path they believe is best for his career in the fight with Edgar Berlanga.

Nevertheless, IBF rules are clear and designed to serve all stakeholders in such matters. Based on the above, IBF had no choice but to make the IBF super middleweight title vacant," the organization said in a statement.

The federation's decision is due to Canelo missing the deadline for his mandatory title defense against contender William Scull (22-0, 9 KO).

Canelo Alvarez last fought in May against Jaime Munguia (43-1, 34 KO) and won by unanimous decision. The next fight for the Mexican boxer will take place on September 14 in Las Vegas, USA, against Edgar Berlanga (22-0, 17 KO).