Maybe it isn’t the Cinco de Mayo showdown that many fans wanted for ‘Canelo’ Alvarez, but his fight against Jaime Munguia should still carry plenty of interest.
Two Mexican stars, one a pound-for-pound great and one an aspiring unbeaten upstart, will lock horns at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on May 4 with all of Canelo’s world super-middleweight titles on the line (live on Amazon Prime Video PPV and DAZN PPV).
Many fans had hoped that Alvarez (60-2-2) would face the dangerous David Benavidez instead, but for now they have to wait as he takes on the 43-0 Munguia (34 wins inside distance).
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Alvarez took time out at Tuesday’s kickoff press conference in Los Angeles to explain why it is Munguia who will be in the opposite corner come May 4.
“Munguia is a disciplined fighter who hits hard. He’s a power puncher and I like a challenge. I want to face fighters who are hungry like I am. He’s a fighter who can give the fans the show they deserve.
“I’m really proud of how amazing fight week is going to be. The fans will be showing their pride everywhere. I can’t wait to show the world what kind of party Mexicans can throw inside and outside of the ring.”
Canelo on Cinco de Mayo pride
Alvarez has become the mainstay of Cinco de Mayo weekend in boxing terms, taking up the mantle from his former promoter Oscar De La Hoya. Their date, and Las Vegas is their town.
Canelo said: “This fight is a great source of pride for me, because it’s all about Mexico. I’m proud to have my country featured this way in front of the whole world. The fans are going to be the biggest winners on May 4 and we invite everyone to what’s gonna be a big party for Mexico.
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“Defending my undisputed title is very important for me. This is all about making history. I want my legacy to be that I made history again and again. That’s what motivates me to keep defending my belts and giving great fights to the fans.
“Jaime Munguia is a respectful person and a great fighter who’s earned this fight again and again. Everyone will see how great this fight is for Mexico on May 4.
