Canelo
Canelo is one of the biggest stars in boxing Getty Images

Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez is to face Britain's Liam Smith for the WBO junior-middleweight title on 17 September. The Mexican star will be seeking his third title in the division against the heavy-hitting fighter from Liverpool, England, who is undefeated in 24 professional bouts.

A venue for the bout has still to be announced, but it will be Canelo's second successive fight against a Brit, having knocked out Amir Khan in stunning fashion in Las Vegas in May.

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"I am very pleased to announce my next fight against Liam Smith, a tremendous fighter with real knockout power, and the WBO junior middleweight world title owner," Canelo, who recently relinquished his WBC middleweight crown, said in a statement.

"I have no doubt that this fight will be give and take, which will fill the expectations of the fans, and I will work with all the enthusiasm as I always do to get the upper hand on 17 September."

Meanwhile, the 27-year-old Brit, who is the current WBO champion, said he is relishing the prospect of facing Canelo. "I am delighted to get the opportunity to defend my world title against the biggest name in world boxing and to headline in the US, which is a dream I have had since I started in the sport of boxing," he shared.

"This fight allows me to make my name in the U.S. and show just how good I am and this is the big stage that will enable me to do that. I thank my team for getting me this opportunity: Frank Warren, BoxNation, Daniel and of course Golden Boy for providing it.

"I am confident of winning this fight and returning to the great city of Liverpool with my belt still around my waist."

Elsewhere, Canelo's promoter, the former multi-weight world champion Oscar De La Hoya, has predicted the fight will end with a spectacular knockout. "This fight will be a slugfest between two heavy hitters, and I have little doubt that it will end with a 10-count," the Chairman of Golden Boy Promotions said.

"Canelo is the biggest star in our sport today, and with a victory on September 17, at the age of just 26 he can add yet another chapter to his already-incredible career."