Once a titan of the junior middleweight division, Jermell Charlo finds himself at a crossroads as he prepares for a potential return to the ring in 2025 after a year-long absence. With a lack of competition in 2024, speculation has emerged regarding his motivation for stepping back into training. Some fans suspect that Charlo is primarily motivated by the prospect of financial gain, particularly due to the highly publicized boxing event set to take place in Riyadh. His previous bout against Canelo Alvarez in September 2023 raised eyebrows, as many believe he may have squandered his earnings, casting doubt on his financial prudence.
Charlo’s diminished presence and performance have not gone unnoticed. On social media, sentiments run deep; many fans argue that he has lost not only his competitive edge but also his relevance in a rapidly evolving sport. Criticism of his last performance, where he lost to Alvarez by unanimous decision without mounting an effective challenge, has tarnished his reputation. The lack of a proposed rematch signifies a broader recognition that moments of glory are fleeting and that nostalgia for his past prowess may not translate into a bright future within the sport.
Jermell’s last five fights tell a story of a once-great champion struggling against the tides of change. The names he conquered in recent years—such as Jeison Rosario and Tony Harrison—are now considered non-factors in the division. Charlo’s current record stands at 35 wins, 2 losses, and 1 draw; while impressive, the stark reality is that many of his victories came against opponents who have failed to maintain their status. As younger fighters rise through the ranks, Jermell risks becoming an afterthought in a division that is increasingly populated with fresh talent.
Should Charlo desire to rekindle his career, he must face formidable opponents who are fully engaged in their own paths to championship glory. Names such as Bakhram Murtazaliev, Vergil Ortiz, and Tim Tszyu stand as potential hurdles, each representing a tough challenge that highlights how far Charlo may have fallen from his peak. Without the financial incentives that once accompanied his bouts, he may need to accept lesser paydays if he wishes to remain competitive at this level of boxing.
For Jermell Charlo, the stakes of a comeback are monumental. With the clock ticking on his athletic career, every bout could be his last chance to leave a lasting legacy. His previous clash with Canelo offered an enormous financial reward but also revealed the chasm between his prior achievements and his current standing in the sport. Should Turki Al-Shiekh or other promoters recognize his potential, Charlo may find an avenue to reignite his fame; however, it is clear that the narrative around his future must evolve beyond mere financial gain and return to passion and competitiveness if he hopes to reclaim his stature in the boxing world.