In his pursuit to be the undisputed super-middleweight champion of the world, Canelo Alvarez does not win universal praise.
Despite winning championships in four weight divisions and emerging as one of the most dominant forces in boxing in recent times, Canelo is often a focus for critics for whom these achievements are not enough.
The Mexican star already holds the WBA ‘Super’ and WBC belts at 168lbs, but is on course to face WBO title holder Billy Joe Saunders in May and IBF king Caleb Plant later in 2021 on the road to ‘undisputed’.
On Saturday night, Canelo faces WBC mandatory challenger Avni Yildirim at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami knowing any slip-up will derail those best laid plans. But an enduring greatness is his ultimate aim, regardless of the barbs of the critics.
“When I retire, we will see [where I am rated all-time], right now I am making history and we will see where I am positioned when I retire. You have to look at it based on wins, based on numbers and championships. This is how it has to be done,” Canelo told journalist Erika Montoya.
“Almost all of the criticisms are unfair. Because when I beat the best they say that the opponent did not look the same as they did in the past. Why does that happen?
“Because with me they have an opponent who does not allow them do anything, an opponent who cancels them out. [Detractors] want to find the weak side for everything, they never give credit. But I’m used to that.”
Main image: Ed Mulholland Matchroom Boxing USA.
