[1] After beating John Ryder on home soil in May 2023, Canelo Álvarez was linked to both undefeated former champion David Benavidez, Jermall Charlo, and a rematch with Light heavyweight champion Dmitry Bivol.

[2] On 23 June he confirmed a September return to the ring as well his switch to Premier Boxing Champions on a three-fight deal after choosing to part ways with Matchroom Sport.

[3] Undisputed Light middleweight champion Jermell Charlo had been out of the ring since he unified the division in his rematch with Brian Castaño in May 2022.

A planned bout with WBO mandatory Tim Tszyu on 29 January was postponed, following Charlo reporting that he had broken two bones in his left hand.

"[7][8] Both fighters were cautious early, but from the second round Álvarez would largely control the pace the bout, backing Charlo into the ropes and landing heavy punches to the body.