By Jhonny Gonzalez

Saul "Canelo" Alvarez (35-0, 26KOs) is preparing for a war against Matthew Hatton (41-4-2, 16KOs), the younger brother of Ricky Hatton. He says Golden Boy Promotions president Oscar De La Hoya selected Hatton as the opponent. Alvarez wants to make it a real war to gain the support of the Mexican fans in California. The bout will happen on March 5 at the Honda Center in Anaheim.

"I know the fans in Los Angeles support Mexican fighters, so I'm going to leave it all in the ring that night. I want to give a very good victory. Hatton is a quality fighter, a champion of Europe and very strong. It's going to be a good fight. I want to put on a good showing because this is my first step for a world title. I want to become a champion this year," Alvarez said.

De Le Hoya also thinks a fight will break out because Hatton will feel the need to defend the family reputation of making exciting fights.

"Matthew Hatton is a 29-year-old European champion with a good record and he wants to be world champion. He is not coming over to receive a check for being in a fight. He comes to fight and strives to become world champion," said De La Hoya.