December 19 will be Canelo Álvarez's (53-1-2, 36KO) first bout as a free agent, he will challenge undefeated 168lbs WBA champion Callum Smith (27-0-0, 19KO) for the title. Canelo finalized the deal with Smith's promoter Eddie Hearns, and will be broadcast on the DAZN platform.

Canelo was negotiating with PBC to face Calleb Plant, but PBC wanted to retain Canelo with 2 to 3 fights. First facing Anthony Dirrell and then doing the fight against Plant on PPV, Canelo did not like the idea of ​​a contract for more than one fight. Hearns agreed with Canelo to do business one fight at a time.

Canelo now has control of his career and can negotiate with any company without contractual ties. Alvarez is (1-0-, 1KO) against the Smith brothers. Canelo KOed Liam Smith in 9 rounds, taking away his undefeated record and his WBO 154lbs crown.