On most occasions, when a fighter becomes an undisputed champion, they often leave the division behind. In addition to the hefty sanctioning fees for holding every world title, they simply seek new challenges.  

Jermell Charlo, of course, was in that exact position. Wins over the trash-talking Tony Harrison, a soft-spoken Jeison Rosario, and the offensively aggressive Brian Castano - pushed Charlo to the very top of the junior middleweight mountain.

Although all signs pointed to Charlo dropping all four of his titles, hitting the weight room, and campaigning at 160 pounds, there were a few more mouths at 154 pounds that he wanted to shut.

Time and time again, the 33-year-old stated that he has no issue with spending the rest of his career in only one division. For now, however, he plans on taking a bit of a detour.

Facing the likes of Tim Tszyu and Brian Mendoza are all exciting options. Most importantly, Charlo (35-1-1, 19 KOs) simply didn’t want to abandon his undisputed throne. With that said, once Canelo Alvarez gave him the call and flashed a mouthwatering paycheck, Charlo couldn’t pass up on the opportunity.

Officially, the pugnacious champ will move up two full-weight divisions to take on the Mexican star. By and large, Charlo has it all. A spot on virtually everyone’s pound-for-pound list, every championship trinket at 154 pounds, generational wealth, and worldwide respect. Still, despite everything he’s accomplished, Charlo views a date with Alvarez as his way of chasing greatness.

The question Charlo has asked himself is if it’s all worth it. From a financial standpoint, the decision to square up with Alvarez is a no-brainer. But, as for those who believe he’s accomplished too much and has everything to lose if he comes up short next month, Charlo, at a recent presser, said that the pot at the end of the rainbow is very much worth the risk.

“When you want to win something this big, you have to risk it all.”