'I’ve lost a step? We’ll see' - Canelo Responds to Critics Prior Canelo vs Charlo
After becoming the undisputed super middleweight world champion in November 2021 by defeating Caleb Plant, Canelo Alvarez has experienced mixed results in his subsequent fights. In May 2022, Alvarez took on Dmitry Bivol in the light heavyweight division but suffered a loss. However, by September 2022, he bounced back with a victory against Gennadiy Golovkin, marking their third fight. Following this win, Alvarez underwent surgery on his left wrist. In May, Alvarez faced John Ryder, delivering a win through a unanimous decision. While he managed to wound Ryder, many were surprised that he couldn't secure a knockout. Now, Alvarez is set to fight Jermell Charlo at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on September 30. This Canelo vs Charlo bout will be available on Showtime pay-per-view, with both fighters competing in the 168-pound category. During a press meet at The Beverly Hilton, Alvarez addressed the murmurs about his recent performance, admitting that he wasn't at his peak in his last two fights. He believes that his injured hand was a factor. Despite this, Alvarez is confident and promises to give his best in the upcoming Canelo vs Charlo fight. Alvarez expressed his gratitude for being part of significant bouts and anticipates a thrilling night for the fans who've eagerly awaited this Canelo vs Charlo match. Earlier this year, Alvarez, who's been a champion in four weight classes, penned a three-fight contract with Premier Boxing Champions.
“We’ll see if it’s true that I’ve lost a step. We’ll see. I understand what the people said and I agree. I didn’t look my best in my last two fights, but I know why and I’m ready for this fight. We’ll see what happens. We’re going to see something different,” Alvarez said during a press conference at The Beverly Hilton. Alvarez said fighting with an ailing hand prohibited him from performing at a peak level. “I’m going to bring my best like always. I’ll bring my skills and my experience into the ring. I’m just going to do my best and that’s it,” said Alvarez. “I’m very happy to be involved in big fights like this. I hope that everybody enjoys this fight because it’s going to be a great night for the fans and for everybody who has wanted to see this fight for a long time.”Being 33 years old, Alvarez has several possible notable matches lined up with fighters associated with PBC. This includes names like David Benavidez, Errol Spence Jr., David Morrell, Jermall Charlo, and Demetrius Andrade. Alvarez mentioned that although he may appear easy to defeat outside the ring, the experience is different when fighters face him inside it. Regarding the Charlo brothers, Alvarez expressed his respect for both but feels Jermell has faced tougher competitors and is the superior fighter.
“I always say that outside of the ring, I look like I’m an easy opponent. But when fighters step in the ring with me, it’s completely different. It’s not the same watching me from outside the ring as it is actually being inside the ring with me. I’m a different guy,” said Alvarez. “I think both Jermell and Jermall Charlo are great fighters. No disrespect to Jermall. But I think Jermell has had better opposition in his fights. I think he is the better fighter. That’s just what I think.”
