Jermell Charlo will move up from the super welterweight limit of 154lbs to challenge Saul ‘Canelo’ Álvarez for his undisputed titles at 168.
The fight is billed as undisputed versus undisputed, but Charlo will be stripped of at least one of his belts when the first bell rings. That’s no worry to him, as he’s confident of dethroning the long-reigning Mexican.
On a recent Showtime broadcast, the 35-1 American said he would surprise Canelo with his power. He also believes himself to be faster, and thinks it’s an advantage that he won’t be struggling or worrying about making weight.
“I believe I got the speed. I got the power. I know one thing about it is Canelo, he is strong. I feel like I’m probably a bigger puncher than Canelo. That’s going to be the surprise.
“I’m not just a little 154-pounder when I walk around. And I don’t have to struggle to make 168. So I’m going to have a great time. Training camp has been good. I’ve already been training for months.”
The Las Vegas bout is set for September 30 and kicks off a reported three-fight deal for Canelo with PBC.
Should Canelo get through it as the winner, he could face Charlo’s twin brother, Jermall, later. Names like David Benavidez and Demetrius Andrade are also part of the roster.
‘Little’ Charlo is looking to upset those plans, and clearly believes he has the tools to do so.
Should that happen, it will be Canelo’s first loss in the super middleweight ranks – his previous two defeats coming to Floyd Mayweather at 152lbs catchweight and, more recently, Dmitry Bivol at an attempt at a second 175lbs world title.