Tim Bradley backs Canelo Alvarez to beat Hamzah Sheeraz if they meet

The Hall of Famer believes Sheeraz's temperament would let Alvarez control a potential WBC super-middleweight title fight, with the Mexican back on top after beating Christian Mbilli last month.

By Combat Sports UK Staff · Published Tue 10 Nov, 18:11 UK · AI-assisted reporting

bradley on canelo v sheeraz graphic — Original graphic: Combat Sports UK

Hall of Famer Tim Bradley has predicted that Canelo Alvarez would beat Hamzah Sheeraz if the Mexican defends his WBC super-middleweight title against him. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Bradley said the unbeaten 27-year-old's temperament would count against him.

Sheeraz has emerged as a potential next opponent for Alvarez, 36, who regained the belt last month with a unanimous decision over Christian Mbilli. That was Alvarez's first fight since a points defeat to Terence Crawford in September 2025 ended his reign as undisputed champion.

Sheeraz gave up his WBO title in September rather than defend it against mandatory challenger Janibek Alimkhanuly, which may have weakened his bargaining position. His partnership with Riyadh Season could still help him secure the fight, as Alvarez has another bout contracted with the promotion.

Bradley pointed to Sheeraz's contentious draw with WBC middleweight champion Carlos Adames early last year, after which Sheeraz moved up to 168lbs. Bradley said Sheeraz becomes flustered easily when he is not landing, and that Adames troubled him by sliding in with combinations and landing big shots over the top. He expected Alvarez to close the distance gradually while relying on his defence and counterpunching.

Bradley said: “I could see a similar fight [between Canelo and Sheeraz].” He added: “But Canelo, I think he does it more on a consistent basis, and I think he has more knowledge than that of Carlos Adames … Canelo’s gonna eat him up, bro, that’s what I think.”

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Christian Mbilli