The general consensus amongst boxing fans is that Jermell Charlo has it all to do against undisputed super-middleweight champion, Saul ‘Canelo’ Álvarez, on September 30 in Las Vegas.
The current four-belt super-welterweight champion is jumping up two divisions, making his 168 debut against the best in the world in that division, Canelo.
Despite the clear test for Charlo, Evander Holyfield – the only boxer in history to win the undisputed championship in two weight classes in the three belt era – is backing him to pull it off.
Speaking to KO Artist Sports, ‘The Real Deal’ said it was time for Charlo to take the throne.
“It should be a good fight, both of the fighters are good fighters. If it goes the distance I think Charlo is going to win if it goes the distance.
He’s a good boxer with good stamina. I’ve seen the kid ever since he was 13 years old because I was training in Houston, Texas at the time and he’s a good fighter.
I know Canelo is a good fighter, but Canelo is a little older and I’m telling you it’s time for the young to show the older guy. You stand out too long and somebody is going to get you. It’s good to see how young people don’t quit.”
Both fighters are 33-year-old. In fact, Charlo is a couple of months older. Holyfield’s opinion is likely based on wear and tear, which is clearly in the American’s favour.
Canelo has had 63 fights since his professional debut in 2005, whilst Charlo has just 35 since kicking off two years later. The Mexican has has competed from super-light all the way up to light-heavy, Charlo just welterweight and super-welterweight.
Fans were surprised at the lack of size difference at the first face-to-face, too. Despite all of that – as well as a vote of confidence from a great like Holyfield – Charlo will enter the ring a clear underdog.