By Luis Sandoval
Saul “Canelo” Alvarez has chosen the toughest challenge available to him as he will face off with Erislandy Lara on July 12th on Showtime pay per view in Las Vegas, NV.
Alvarez’s reign at Junior Middleweight was sidelined last September when Alvarez lost to Floyd “Money” Mayweather but he’s getting back on track and beating Lara would put him right back at the top.
The ironic thing is this will be the third straight fight where Canelo has not used the normal 154 pound weight limit for his fights. His fight with Mayweather was contracted at a catch weight of 152 and his recent outing against Alfredo Angulo was set for 155 pounds.
His fight with Lara has also been contracted one pound above the 154 pound limit. Many have wondered if Canelo is having trouble making the Junior Middleweight limit but he assures he’s fine in his current division.
“I feel comfortable at this weight. When it’s not for a championship, there’s no need to weigh in at 154. From 154 pounds to 155 is merely a pound. I feel good at this weight and the day that I fight for the title again is the day I will weigh in 154” Alvarez would tell BoxingScene.
The world title is something Alvarez would love back but he’s refused to fight for the WBA interim title as he says this fight is for more than just a belt.
“Aside from the fact that it’s an interim title, this fight here is more for honor. It’s not for the title. I think sometimes honor is worth more than a title especially if it’s an interim title” stated Canelo.
Alvarez is excited to get back in the ring and feels confident going into this fight. His destruction of Alfredo Angulo in March is what he says we should always expect from him.
“I had the hunger and urge to be back in the ring [in that fight]. That’s why I came out like I came out. That’s my style and I will continue to fight that way”.
Alvarez and Lara will continue their press tour and will commence training once it’s over.
You can follow Luis Sandoval on Twitter & Instagram @Truewest007.