Lara Admits He Was Surprised Canelo Picked Him

By Luis Sandoval

It was no secret that Erislandy Lara wanted to get a chance to face the Saul Alvarez in his next fight. He went as far as to confront and ask Alvarez for a shot at Alvarez’s post fight press conference after Alvarez defeated Alfredo Angulo.

The old school tactic used by Lara appeared to fall short as Alvarez dismissed his request and instead Lara signed up to fight Ishe Smith. But just a few weeks after their incident, Alvarez said he wanted to fight Lara for his scheduled July 12th pay per view date. Lara would forego the Smith fight and sign up to fight Alvarez instead.

During the first stop of their press tour in Los Angeles, Lara was asked if he was surprised Alvarez decided to take him up on his offer and fight him.

“Yes, it surprised me. It surprised me because I had already put the fight to the side and was focused on Ishe Smith. But once I was told the news, I had to change my plans and go with plan B and cancel that fight in order to face Canelo Alvarez” said Lara.

Many didn’t expect Alvarez to choose Lara as Lara is perceived as one of the best and most difficult fighters in the division. Much like when he chose to fight Austin Trout, Canelo decided to accept the challenge and prove he really does want to fight the best.

Alvarez is out to prove he’s still one of the top Junior Middleweights in the world and against Angulo, he came out guns blazing and looked to make a statement. Lara was asked if he expects the same aggressive Canelo to attack him in July or if he thinks we’ll see a more tamer and tactical Alvarez.

“He’ll definitely come aggressive. He’s going to come give a show to the fans. But we’re going to be prepared for whatever form he fights in. We’ll be very prepared and very active and ready for whatever he brings” Lara would tell BoxingScene.

Lara informs he’s ready to stand fight or box Alvarez and isn’t concern with his size advantage. Both fighters will commence their training as soon as their press tour is done.

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