Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez will defend his WBC and WBA super-middleweight titles against Avni Yildirim on 27 February at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida.
The Mexican superstar burnished his claim to be rated the top pound-for-pound boxer in the world with a dominant performance in a unanimous decision victory over Liverpool’s Callum Smith last month.
Alvarez has stated his wish to become undisputed champion at 168lbs but must first take on WBC mandatory challenger Yildirim, who has won 21 of his 23 professional contests.
"Avni Yildirim is a good boxer and I know we will put on an exciting fight," said Canelo, who has lost just once in his 57 fights in the paid ranks, with 54 wins and two draws.
"I’m very glad that we are able to bring this event to Miami, a short distance from where my hero, Muhammad Ali, trained. 27 February will be a great night for the sport."
Yildirim lost a technical decision to Anthony Dirrell for the WBC title in his most recent outing nearly two years ago while the Turkish fighter was knocked out inside three rounds by Chris Eubank Jr in October 2017.
"I am honoured as a mandatory to fight again for the big green belt," said Yildirim.
"I always give my all – and everybody should be ready to see a war. I am coming to make my country proud."
