In exciting news for boxing fans, Canelo Alvarez has recently signed an extension with Mexican network TV Azteca, solidifying his commitment to the sport for at least another five years. However, this development has raised questions among his devoted followers regarding the opponents he will choose to face during this period. Many enthusiasts are eager to see Canelo take on the best fighters at 168 pounds, without selectively picking opponents as he has been accused of doing since moving up to the weight class in 2020.
TV Azteca officially announced Canelo's renewal, with the champion expressing gratitude for their trust and affirming his intention to continue boxing for the foreseeable future. Yet, skeptics remain unconvinced that Canelo will indeed compete for another five years. Considering the Mexican boxer's extensive career and numerous fights, reaching 38 years of age while maintaining a high level of performance seems unlikely.
To achieve this ambitious five-year plan, one possibility is for Canelo to avoid facing formidable opposition at 168 pounds, such as David Benavidez and David Morrell, and instead focus on defending his undisputed super middleweight championship against less challenging opponents. By only fighting twice a year, Canelo could strategically select opponents from a list of less formidable contenders to prolong his success without risking defeats that could jeopardize his status as the undisputed champion.
While this strategy might disappoint fans who long to see Canelo face the most dangerous competitors, it is not an entirely new approach for him. Since moving up to the 168-pound division four years ago, Canelo has faced a variety of opponents who haven't been viewed as the toughest challengers available. This trend has been even more evident since his victory against Sergey Kovalev in the light heavyweight division, where he suffered his only loss at the weight class.
Looking back at Canelo's recent opponents at 168 pounds, the list includes Jermell Charlo, John Ryder, Caleb Plant, Billy Joe Saunders, Avni Yildirim, Callum Smith, and Rocky Fielding. With this roster of fighters, Canelo managed to maintain his reign as the undisputed super middleweight champion, allowing him to secure a disjointed but nevertheless impressive legacy in the making.
It remains to be seen how Canelo will navigate the next five years and if his strategy will prioritize legacy-building through careful opponent selection or taking on the biggest challenges available. Boxing enthusiasts can only hope that the Mexican superstar will continue to push the boundaries of the sport and engage in thrilling matchups that captivate audiences worldwide.
In the end, regardless of the path Canelo chooses, his impact on the world of boxing is undeniable. His skill, dedication, and determination have made him a force to be reckoned with, and his next moves will undoubtedly shape his legacy in this esteemed sport.
