The anticipation surrounding Canelo Alvarez’s upcoming fights seems to have no end in sight. As the undisputed super-Middleweight champion, the Mexican attracts a host of contenders vying for the opportunity to step into the ring with him. Moreover, undisputed junior Middleweight champion Jermell Charlo has now emerged as the next challenger for Alvarez’s titles.

Initially, ‘Saul’ was supposed to face Jermell’s twin brother Jermall in the first of his three-fight deal with PBC. Despite this, it was later announced that Jermell would be stepping into the ring for this showdown. However, the decision to pit Charlo against Alvarez has raised some eyebrows, with critics arguing that the weight disparity favors the latter. One such critic is Tim Tszyu, who is the WBO mandatory challenger for Charlo’s titles at 154 pounds. He believes that ‘Iron Man’s’ motivation for taking the Alvarez fight is solely financial.

Tim Tszyu criticizes Jermell Charlo’s motivation for taking the Canelo Alvarez fight

In an interview with ESPN, Tszyu expressed his lack of surprise at Charlo’s decision to face Alvarez. He asserted that the motivation behind Charlo’s move was purely financial, implying that the allure of a bigger payday against the more popular champion was the primary driving force behind his decision. Moreover, he was also disappointed after being left without the opportunity to battle for the undisputed junior Middleweight championship.

“[Jermell Charlo] had one last fight in him because he was going to lose. So he took the one with the bigger pay. He’s a businessman,” said Tszyu

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While Tszyu might have some weight in his claims, many fans did not agree with him and were quick to point it out as well. Moreover, Mayweather Promotions CEO Leonard Ellerbe has come out to defend Charlo against Tim Tszyu’s criticism.

Leonard Ellerbe defends Jermell Charlo

The 57-year-old took to social media and dismissed Tszyu’s claims asserting that Charlo’s decision to move up to face Alvarez was a logical and obvious choice. According to Ellerbe, what Charlo is doing is a “no-brainer.” By seizing the opportunity to fight Alvarez, he is not only securing a significant payday but also positioning himself for future lucrative matchups against notable opponents in the super-Middleweight division, such as David Benavidez and Caleb Plant.

“Stop gassing this bs up, what Mel is doing is a no brainer!!” he wrote.

In defending Charlo, Ellerbe emphasizes the business aspect of the sport. This also highlights the strategic decision-making that fighters often undertake to maximize their financial gains and further their careers. As the boxing world continues to anticipate the matchup between Alvarez and Charlo, the debate surrounding the motivations and choices of these fighters adds an extra layer of intrigue and speculation to the already captivating world of professional boxing.

Read More: “That Was Me Calling His A** Out”: Resurfaced Video Shows Jermell Charlo Talking About Fighting Canelo Alvarez One Year Prior to Their Showdown

What did you think about Ellerbe defending Charlo? Let us know in the comments.

Watch This Story: Everything We Know So Far About Canelo Alvarez vs. Jermell Charlo