Terence Crawford retired following a virtuoso performance against Canelo Alvarez in September, and now Crawford’s trainer is hoping that he can secure a second win over Canelo, offering the Mexican a fight with ‘Bud’s stablemate.
Brian ‘BoMac’ MacIntyre guided Crawford to a legendary triumph over Canelo six months ago, as the Omaha-born sensation maintained his undefeated record and became the first three-division undisputed champion since Henry Armstrong in 1938.
Canelo remains sidelined, plotting a return to the division in September, when he will presumably return in an instant world title shot – with newly-crowned WBC champion Christian Mbilli being the assumed target.
Mbilli defeated Maciej Sulecki to claim the WBC Interim title last year and defended it in a brawl with Lester Martinez that was scored as a draw, before being elevated to full WBC world champion due to Crawford’s retirement.
Meanwhile, Martinez, a training partner of Crawford’s, assumed position as the new interim champion when he returned to action this month, claiming the title and subsequent mandatory challenger position with a decision victory over Immanuwel Aleem.
Speaking to FightHype after cornering the Guatemalan in that win, MacIntyre called for a rematch between Martinez and Mbilli for the full WBC crown and also suggested a potential showdown with Canelo Alvarez.
“This s**t is beautiful, making world champions and going for the next motherf***ers that is in the weight class. You heard me, Mbilli, Canelo, and anybody else out there at 168lbs that want this s**t. Let’s get it!”
Mbilli may fight before September as he seeks to defend his belt and prepare for a possible clash with Canelo. Although, Martinez would likely be deemed as a risky option for a first defence when such a lucrative opportunity is within touching distance.