WBC approve Canelo's bid to chase title in fifth weight class

Saul Alvarez is set to chase a title in a fifth weight class after the WBC approved his request to challenge Ilunga Junior Makabu for the cruiserweight championship.

Canelo etched his name in the history books courtesy of a brutal 11th-round knockout of previously unbeaten IBF holder Caleb Plant in their blockbuster unification showdown on November 6 — the Mexican superstar becoming the first undisputed super-middleweight champion.

After sweeping the division with his WBC, WBA and WBO belts, plus the IBF crown, Canelo (57-1-2) is looking to make the step up to become a five-weight champion.

Canelo has never competed at cruiserweight but the 31-year-old is now in line to meet Congolese champion Makabu (28-2), who has won nine consecutive fights dating back to 2016.

Trainer Eddy Reynoso told ESPN Deportes: "I know. what he has done with the heavyweights he spars with and that is why we asked for the fight.

"We know [Makabu] is strong but Canelo can beat him. Many may say it is crazy but they also said that it was crazy when Canelo was junior-middleweight champion and we were looking for middleweights, super-middleweight, light-heavyweights.

"I have a lot of confidence in Canelo. He is very strong and has many qualities. I know he is going to win that fight."