Former Undisputed Junior Middleweight Champion Jermell Charlo (35-2-1, 19 KOs) is set to challenge for a world title following Canelo Alvarez vs. Terence Crawford on September 13.
Charlo’s last bout was in September 2023, when he moved up two weight classes to challenge Canelo for the undisputed super-middleweight title, a fight he lost by unanimous decision. Despite his inactivity, Charlo maintained his status as the WBA “champion in recess.” The ruling means that he will get an immediate title shot in his first fight back.
When Crawford steps into the ring against Canelo, he is likely to be stripped of his WBA Junior Middleweight Title, a belt he won by beating Israil Madrimov last August. This will likely result in interim champion Ismail Baraou being elevated to full champion, with a mandatory title defense against Charlo.
Per @GilberticoWBA, when Crawford steps into the ring vs. Canelo he will lose recognition as WBA 154 champion. Baraou, who won the interim title from Tellez, will be elevated and his mandatory will be ordered vs. Jermell Charlo. #boxing #TellezBaraou
— Dan Rafael (@DanRafael1) August 24, 2025