Canelo: “He brings nothing to the table for me”
Canelo Alvarez will make his first ring appearance of 2024, when he takes on Jaime Munguia on May 4.
Mexican Munguia has enjoyed a successful run in his professional career to date, racking up 42 wins without a single loss.
His most recent victory came against John Ryder in January. The brave Brit was sent to the canvas four times before the fight was eventually stopped in the ninth. Despite an impressive resume, fans are disappointed at Canelo’s decision to agree to a fight with his fellow countryman.
Supporters of the Mexican superstar had been hoping to see him face off against super middleweight dangerman David Benavidez.
As WBC Interim champion, Benavidez has long been considered the rightful challenger to Canelo’s undisputed crown, though a fight between the two has never come to fruition.
The former pound-for-pound titan has been criticised for avoiding the undefeated American-Mexican. “The Monster” Benavidez has remained the WBC mandatory challenger for over two years, not once appearing close to securing a fight with the PPV superstar.
Speaking at the launch press conference ahead of his upcoming May clash, Canelo revealed that he has no interest in fighting his super-middleweight rival unless he receives sizeable financial compensation for a proposed bout.
“He brings nothing to the table for me,” Canelo stated.
“But if a promoter who I work with offers $150m or $200m then I will fight tomorrow. That’s the only reason I will fight with him.”
Unfortunately for fight fans, time may have run out for fans to see the eagerly awaited showdown, with Benavidez looking ready to test his luck at light-heavyweight.
The 27-year-old will make the move to 175 pounds, facing off against Oleksandr Gvozdyk in June. The fight will result in the winner likely next in line for a shot at the light heavyweight titles, following the result of Dmitry Bivol and Artur Beterbiev’s highly anticipated meeting on June 1.
Canelo Álvarez: “Jaime Munguia is a respectful person and a great fighter who’s earned this fight again and again. Everyone will see how great this fight is for Mexico on May 4.”