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via Imago

via Imago

In an unexpected turn of events undisputed super Middleweight champion, Canelo Alvarez will be defending his titles against Jermell Charlo on September 30 in Las Vegas. This announcement came as a surprise since the original plan was for Alvarez to face Jermell’s twin brother, Jermall Charlo, in the first fight of a three-fight deal with Premier Boxing Champions (PBC). However, due to Jermall’s unavailability stemming from personal issues, his brother stepped in to take on the challenge.

Jermell Charlo is the current undisputed junior Middleweight champion. However, he has never competed above the 154-pound weight class, whereas Alvarez has previously won a title at 175 pounds. Despite the difference in weight classes, Charlo will have a notable advantage in height and reach, standing four inches taller than Alvarez with a 2.5-inch reach advantage. Interestingly, a resurfaced video shows Jermell calling out the Mexican star a year prior to their upcoming showdown.

Jermell Charlo issues a challenge to Canelo Alvarez

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In a resurfaced video posted by ES News, Charlo confidently expressed his desire to face Alvarez. He highlighted that the two were at similar weight rankings at the time. Moreover, he mentions being ranked number three while ‘Saul’ held the championship and Miguel Cotto was number two. Charlo proposes a scenario where he gains a little weight, they meet in the middle and create something significant. He makes it clear that he is not worried about facing the undisputed Mexican champion.

“That was me calling his a*s out. We were in the same weight. I was ranked number three, he was ranked number one. Mayweather was the champion. I think Miguel Cotto was number two. What if I get the belts, all four belts? He is already undisputed. I gain a little weight. We meet in the middle. What the f**k, let’s make something big. I ain’t worry about no Canelo,” said Charlo

The resurfaced video of ‘Iron Man’ calling out Alvarez adds an interesting layer to their upcoming clash. It shows that Charlo had expressed his desire to face the boxing superstar even before the fight was officially arranged. This display of confidence and willingness to take on  tough challenges speaks volumes about his mindset and ambition. However, while Charlo thinks he can overcome Alvarez a former world champion feels that this fight is a mismatch in the Mexican’s favor.

Former world champion labels Alvarez vs Charlo as a mismatch

In an interview with FightHype.com former Welterweight world champion Timothy Bradley called this fight a ‘mismatch’. However, Bradley acknowledged that the fight would still generate significant commercial success due to Canelo’s popularity and Charlo being an African American fighter. Bradley emphasized that Charlo would face a daunting challenge in trying to defeat Canelo, as the Mexican star possesses one of the best chins in boxing.

I personally think this fight is a mismatch. I still think it does astronomical numbers, because it’s Canelo Alvarez and he’s facing an African American. If anybody’s banking on Charlo to knock Canelo out, you can wish that goodbye. Because Canelo has one of the best chins in all of boxing” he said.

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As the fight between the two stars approaches, fans can anticipate an intriguing clash. While the odds may be stacked against Charlo, the unpredictability of boxing leaves room for surprises and upsets. Ultimately, the matchup presents an opportunity for both fighters to showcase their abilities and make their mark in the sport. Whether it proves to be a lopsided affair or a shocking upset, the fight is sure to captivate fans and generate considerable excitement in the boxing community.

Read More: Watch: Canelo Alvarez and Jermell Charlo Putting in the Work Before Their Tryst With Fame

What did you think about Charlo calling out Alvarez a year before their scheduled bout? Let us know in the comments.

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