Canelo Alvarez Is “On the Downward Slope”, Claims Former World Champ Ahead of Jaime Munguia Fight

Published 04/24/2024, 6:56 AM EDT

Canelo Alvarez is among the few names in contention for the status of ‘Face of Boxing.’ Having achieved numerous accolades, the undisputed super middleweight champion is about to face his Mexican counterpart, Jaime Munguia, on May 4 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, However, former world champion, Tony Bellew feels the Mexican superstar is slowly exiting his prime.

Besides his career-altering loss to Floyd Mayweather in September 2013, Saul Alvarez was conquered by Dmitry Bivol in May 2022. Something ‘Bomber’ Bellew used to get his point across in an interview with DAZN Boxing, shared on YouTube today.

Tony Bellew feels Canelo Alvarez is at his 80% capacity

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Speaking to Bellew at the Jordan Gill vs. Zelfa Barrett press conference on 11 April in Manchester, United Kingdom, Ade Oladipo brought up Canelo’s upcoming fight. So, reflecting Canelo’s current performance, Bellew said, “I just think he’s a special fighter. I do think he’s on the downward slope now. I’m not going to lie.”

Hearing this, Oladipo quickly asked if Canelo was at his 100% during the fight against Gennady Golovkin, and where he stood in Bellew’s eyes. In response, the former world champion said, “80 maybe! Maybe even 75. I just thought he was so lackluster against Bivol… You can’t go and watch Bivol against Craig Richards, and then, say, this man’s going to beat Canelo Alvarez.” Despite what Bellew says about Canelo, Canelo’s stable mate seems to have confidence in him.

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Eddie Reynoso-trained boxer backs Canelo Alvarez against Jaime Munguia

In the lead-up to the May 4 all-Mexican bout, many have suggested Munguia won’t be much of a challenge for Canelo. However, Oscar Valdez doesn’t agree with any such statements! In an interview with Boxing Scene on April 21, Valdez said, “I’m happy, because if there is a pie, both sides go to Mexico, so it’s a win-win.”

He then added, “I’m happy for Jaime Munguia. He’s not an easy opponent. People think Jaime Munguia is a walk in the park for Canelo. No, he’s tough. He’s got the heart.” Despite that, Valdez seems confident that Canelo will send Munguia packing. “But I still got Canelo winning, because I see him train and the advantages he has [mentally] and with his talent,” said Valdez.

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With the fight night inching closer, everyone seems to be talking about what is about to unfold. However, whether Bellew’s claims hold ground is yet to be seen. Until then, we would like to get your thoughts on the Canelo Alvarez vs. Jaime Munguia fight. Let us know in the comments!

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Written by:

Sudeep Sinha is a Boxing writer at EssentiallySports. His string of noteworthy coverages includes USA Boxing’s new controversial guidelines, Francis Ngannou’s stunning boxing debut, and Amanda Serrano’s tussle with the WBC. Sudeep continues to contribute valuable insights with his passionate understanding of the ins and outs of the sport.

Edited by:

Abhishek Manikandan

Canelo Alvarez Is “On the Downward Slope”, Claims Former World Champ Ahead of Jaime Munguia Fight

Tony Bellew feels Canelo Alvarez is at his 80% capacity

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