Jermell Charlo moves up two divisions to challenge for Saul ‘Canelo’ Álvarez’ four super-middleweight titles this Saturday night.
It’s the Mexican’s third defence of his undisputed status following decision wins over Gennady Golovkin and John Ryder, two fights that many felt the Mexican didn’t look at his very best.
That’s a point Tony Bellew considered when making his prediction for the fight.
The former world cruiserweight champion told DAZN that he sees an upset on the cards, believing Charlo will leave the ring the new 168lbs champion despite it being his first effort at the weight.
“Canelo vs. Charlo really is an amazing fight. I’ve got this feeling that the youth on Charlo’s side is going to be a factor in this one and that Canelo might not be able to keep up. This one can go either way, but I just think Canelo might lose. Charlo is hungry and I feel he has the bigger point to prove.”
Canelo and Charlo are both 33-years-old, but the Mexican has more miles on the clock in the form of 63 fights to the American’s 37.
As well as the weight jump, Charlo also has to contend with inactivity, having last fought 16 months ago – an impressive stoppage win over Brian Castano to become undisputed at super-welter.
Both men have approached fight week confidently, with Canelo determined to prove any critics who said he was on a gradual decline wrong whilst Charlo believes he can beat the stronger man and upset the odds.
Fight night, live from the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, is on Showtime PPV in the US and DAZN’s regular subscription in the UK.