Canelo-Ryder quick fight preview
One-minute read:
Pound for pound superstar Saul “Canelo” Alvarez (58-2-2, 39KO) returns home to Mexico for the first time in over a decade to defend his undisputed super-middleweight crown to world title contender John “The Gorilla” Ryder (32-5, 18KO) on May 6 at the Akron Stadium in Guadalajara, live on DAZN.
Canelo
Trained by Eddy Reynoso, Canelo is a four-weight world champion who has lost just twice in 64 bouts – to Floyd Mayweather and Dmitry Bivol, both known for being elite champions with excellent jabs.
The 32-year-old Mexican megastar is a superb counter-puncher with heavy hands who likes to fight at mid-range.
Ryder
34-year-old Ryder from Islington, London, has had a world title shot before, to Callum Smith, where he outlanded the champion in eight of the 12 rounds but was cruelly denied the decision.
Trained by Tony Sims, Ryder is a technically sound, fluid southpaw that likes to fight in close range using compact hooks while rolling under return fire. He is one of the best when it comes to fighting on the inside, plus he’s seasoned, rugged, tough, and no stranger to the big stage.
Predictions
Ryder is a top contender, but he doesn’t have much of a jab or enough power to trouble Canelo. He has proved himself as a contender and is good enough to be a world champion but isn’t as good as Canelo, who enters into his 23rd world championship contest.
Ryder could give the fight of his life and reach the final bell but if it goes to points in Mexico, it’ll be the Mexican getting the decision.
However, Ryder shows several vulnerabilities – openings, patterns and repetitive movements – that Canelo will study, spot and exploit over time; like he did when he shattered Billy Joe Saunders' eye with an uppercut. Canelo has beaten all seven British opponents he has faced so far.
Verdict
Canelo to win via late KO.
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