Could Diego Pacheco be Canelo Alvarez's next challenger?

Diego Pacheco isn't letting a missed showdown with Edgar Berlanga get him down-he's already got his sights set on a new target: Steven Nelson. The 23-year-old boxing sensation is gearing up for a clash with Poland's Maciej Sulecki on August 31st at Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, but it's what's brewing after that fight that has fans buzzing.

Pacheco, who hails from Renton, Washington, recently spilled his frustrations on the Flash Knockdown podcast. The young boxer, who's the WBO's top contender for Canelo Alvarez, expressed disappointment that Berlanga, not him, snagged the fight with the Mexican superstar. Pacheco was itching for a chance to prove he deserved that shot more than Berlanga, believing their bout would have been the perfect test.

But don't get it twisted-Pacheco isn't bitter. He understands that Berlanga, who's already 27, is in his prime and ready for a major opportunity. "It's his time, I guess," Pacheco itted. "I hope he takes full advantage of it and makes the best of it. But yeah, I want the winner."

Just when it seemed like the dust might settle, Pacheco's interview sparked interest from another undefeated fighter. After SportsBox TV Official shared Pacheco's comments on Instagram, Steven Nelson slid into the mix with a bold challenge. "Since they're locked in, how about me and you get in there for a title eliminator after your next fight?" Nelson suggested, tagging Pacheco directly.

Pacheco locks In next challenge, predicts Canelo's victory

Pacheco, who's set to defend his WBC USA and WBO international super middleweight titles against Sulecki, didn't hesitate. He responded with a confident "run it," signaling he's ready for whatever comes next. Nelson was quick to follow up, promising, "My people will be in as soon as you're done with your next one." The implication? The winner of Pacheco vs. Nelson could be looking at a mandatory shot at Canelo-if Canelo takes care of business against Berlanga on September 14th.

Speaking of that fight, Pacheco didn't hold back on his prediction. When asked who he thinks will come out on top between Canelo and Berlanga, Pacheco made it clear-he's betting on Canelo. "I think Canelo will stop him," Pacheco said, predicting that while Berlanga might look good in the early rounds, Canelo will find his rhythm and finish the job.

So, while Pacheco might not be getting the immediate fight he wanted, he's far from sidelined. With a potential showdown against Nelson looming and a possible shot at the winner of Canelo vs. Berlanga, Diego Pacheco's future in the ring is anything but uncertain. What do you think? Could Pacheco be the next big thing in the super middleweight division?

Where to watch Pacheco vs Sulecki?

Diego Pacheco and Maciej Sulecki will meet in the ring this Saturday, August 31. The event will be broadcast on DAZN at 8:00 PM E.T. / 5:00 PM P.T.