By Luis Sandoval

After trying unsuccessfully three times to secure an opponent for the very coveted September 15th Mexican Independence Day, Saul “Canelo” Alvarez narrowed his opponent down to Josesito Lopez who is coming off arguably the biggest upset of the year when he stopped Victor Ortiz in 9 rounds this past June.

Lopez, who up until his fight with Ortiz was a 140 pound fighter, is making yet another move up in weight as he will enter the 154 pound Junior Middleweight division to take on Alvarez. Many think Lopez is too small and won’t be able to match up well with Alvarez but Alvarez is not taking him lightly.

When Alvarez appeared on the most recent edition of BoxingScene’s official radio show The Boxing Lab, he was asked what his thoughts were on people’s criticism saying Lopez is too small of a foe.

“He’s a hungry fighter with a lot of will and that’s the most dangerous type of fighter. He has everything to win and he knows it. Obviously a lot of people are commenting on that but I know in this sport there is no such thing as an enemy being too small. I’m going to prepare the same way and do it 100% so that there are no surprises,” said Alvarez.

Alvarez was able to witness Josesito surprise the entire boxing world when he sat ringside at the fight as he was scouting Ortiz who was supposed to be his opponent on September 15th. After seeing Lopez ruin plans of a possible clash with Ortiz and will himself to victory, Alvarez was no doubt impressed.

“He’s a fighter with a ton of heart and great combinations. He’s strong and he can hang in there and take it. He’s a fighter to be cautious of and we’re preparing for him and getting sparring partners that are similar to him. All the preparation is fully focused on Josesito,” expressed the reigning WBC Junior Middleweight champion.

While Lopez may be smaller than the three possible opponents Alvarez was supposed to face, the size of his heart is the same. Alvarez isn’t bothered by those who criticize his choice in opponent and feels Lopez earned his chance.

“God knows why he does things. It doesn’t bother me. I’m going to fight with the fighter who beat the guy I was supposed to fight. He stopped him so he earned his opportunity. He got into the mix without permission and now here we are getting ready to fight."

You can listen to Saul “Canelo” Alvarez’s interview in its entirety by listening to The Boxing Lab podcast: http://tobtr.com/s/3449453

You can follow Luis Sandoval on Twitter @Truewest007. You can also tune in to The Boxing Lab, Boxingscene’s official audio show every Tuesday from 6-8PM PST with hosts Ernest Gabion, Luis Sandoval, and Ryan Burton.

Tags: Josesito Lopez , Saul Alvarez , Canelo-Lopez , Canelo vs. Lopez