For more than a decade, Saul “Canelo” Alvarez has been the unquestioned face of boxing. The Mexican superstar has captivated audiences across the globe, selling millions of pay-per-views, unifying championships, and delivering blockbuster fights against the sport’s biggest names. Yet, as all legends eventually do, Canelo is nearing the twilight of his career.

Following his recent defeat to Terence Crawford and the absence of major titles around his waist, Canelo’s grip on boxing’s commercial crown has begun to loosen. Fans and promoters alike are now asking: Who will step up as the next global superstar?

While Crawford himself is celebrated as one of the sport’s finest technicians, at nearly 38 years old, his time as a mainstream attraction is likely limited. The power vacuum left by Canelo will inevitably be filled. The only question is, which fighter has the talent, charisma, and marketability to become boxing’s next true face?

Here are five rising stars — led by Moses Itauma — who may soon carry that torch.

Moses Itauma: The Heavyweight Phenom

In an era where self-promotion often overshadows performance, Moses Itauma has quietly let his fists do the talking. At just 20 years old, the British heavyweight has already made a name for himself with devastating knockouts and an aura of inevitability around his rise.

Ranked No. 1 by the WBO, No. 2 by the WBA, and No. 4 by the WBC, Itauma’s climb has been nothing short of meteoric. Out of his 13 professional fights, 11 have ended by stoppage, showcasing his raw power and finishing instincts. While many young fighters struggle with the politics of modern boxing, Itauma has navigated the landscape brilliantly, positioning himself within striking distance of a world title shot.

His potential bout against Oleksandr Usyk, the reigning heavyweight king, looms as a possible “passing of the torch” moment. Even if Itauma isn’t quite ready for such a leap, his calm demeanor and maturity suggest he won’t rush. Backed by promoter Frank Warren and enjoying the favor of influential Saudi boxing figure Turki Alalshikh, Itauma is strategically aligned to take advantage of boxing’s new global stage.

The heavyweight division has always been the sport’s most glamorous, and if Itauma continues his current trajectory, he could very well become boxing’s next household name.

Naoya Inoue: “The Monster” Breaking Borders

If talent alone determined the face of boxing, Naoya Inoue would already hold the crown. Nicknamed “The Monster,” the Japanese superstar has become one of the most dominant fighters of this generation. With an astounding record of 31 wins and 27 knockouts, Inoue has captured undisputed titles in two different weight classes — a feat that speaks to his technical brilliance and ferocious style.

At 32 years old, Inoue is firmly in his prime, and American promoters like Top Rank are working diligently to expand his fanbase beyond Japan. Recent fights in Las Vegas and his upcoming Saudi Arabian debut are clear efforts to globalize his brand.

Inoue’s potential move to featherweight, where he could face British world champion Nick Ball, presents a golden opportunity to grow his profile in the UK. With a style built for highlight reels and an unmatched pedigree, Inoue has everything needed to capture casual fans — he just needs greater international exposure to truly rival Canelo’s commercial footprint.

David Benavidez: The Mexican-American Powerhouse

Few fighters have loomed as a constant threat to Canelo’s throne quite like David Benavidez. The WBC light heavyweight champion, known for his relentless aggression and fearlessness, has long been viewed as the “boogeyman” of the super middleweight and light heavyweight divisions.

Benavidez’s journey has not been without obstacles — including losing his WBC belt for failing to make weight. Yet, he has rebounded impressively, earning championships in two divisions and establishing himself as one of the sport’s most feared punchers.

Born in the U.S. to Mexican heritage, Benavidez naturally appeals to the same fanbase that has passionately supported Canelo for years. His ambition to unify all four belts at light heavyweight by facing Dmitry Bivol shows his hunger for greatness.

Should he one day defeat both Bivol and Canelo, Benavidez would have the résumé and the name recognition to stand as boxing’s new leading figure. His charisma, boldness, and marketable fighting style make him one of the strongest contenders for the throne.

Vergil Ortiz Jr: The Knockout Artist

While still searching for his first full world title, Vergil Ortiz Jr has steadily built a reputation as one of boxing’s most dangerous fighters. With an undefeated record of 23-0, including 21 knockouts, Ortiz brings rare knockout power to the super welterweight division.

Signed under Oscar De La Hoya’s Golden Boy Promotions, Ortiz has been hailed as one of the brightest prospects in North America. His recent victories over Serhii Bohachuk and Israil Madrimov cemented his position as the WBC interim champion, placing him on the doorstep of a major world title shot.

Rumors of a showdown with fellow rising star Jaron “Boots” Ennis have circulated for years. Should the two meet at 154 lbs, the winner could instantly propel themselves into superstardom. For Ortiz, combining his knockout-heavy record with a signature rivalry would provide the commercial spark needed to replace Canelo as boxing’s top attraction.

Xander Zayas: Puerto Rico’s Next Superstar

At just 23 years old, Xander Zayas is already a world champion at super welterweight, holding the WBO title. Representing Puerto Rico, a nation with a rich boxing tradition, Zayas is quickly becoming a symbol of pride and hope for his people.

Beyond the ring, Zayas has embraced the cultural spotlight. His partnership with Rimas Sports, co-owned by international superstar Bad Bunny, has amplified his brand to mainstream audiences. Appearing alongside Bad Bunny at concerts and events, Zayas has positioned himself not just as a fighter, but as a cultural ambassador.

Zayas himself has made his intentions clear: he doesn’t want to simply win belts, he wants to leave a legacy and uplift his community. With youth, charisma, and significant marketing power behind him, Zayas could soon become one of boxing’s biggest global figures.

Who Will Take Canelo’s Throne?

Canelo’s reign as boxing’s biggest star is undeniably in its final chapters. While his achievements will forever be remembered, the sport’s future lies in the hands of a new generation. Fighters like Moses Itauma, Naoya Inoue, David Benavidez, Vergil Ortiz Jr, and Xander Zayas each bring a unique blend of skill, personality, and commercial appeal to the table.

The question isn’t whether someone will replace Canelo as the face of boxing — it’s who will step up first to claim that mantle.

• Itauma has the heavyweight appeal and youthful charisma.

• Inoue has unmatched skill and knockout artistry.

• Benavidez has the heritage and hunger for greatness.

• Ortiz Jr has the knockout record and Mexican-American backing.

• Zayas has cultural momentum and star-making marketing power.

The boxing world may soon witness a shift in its hierarchy, and fans should keep a close eye on these names. Whoever seizes the opportunity, one thing is certain: the post-Canelo era of boxing is shaping up to be every bit as exciting as the one we are leaving behind.