Canelo Alvarez, often hailed as a boxing great, has recently come under scrutiny from fans who believe he’s overrated and has strategically chosen opponents past their prime. This perception has been fueled by Canelo’s management’s careful matchmaking, which some argue has shielded him from potential losses and elevated his career.
Drawing parallels with Gervonta Davis, critics argue that Canelo has been protected from formidable opponents, much like Davis. They point to his avoidance of fighters like David Benavidez, Artur Beterbiev, Jermall Charlo, and others in their prime. Canelo’s recent loss to Dmitry Bivol further fueled these criticisms.
However, it’s worth noting that Canelo has faced several seasoned fighters, including Miguel Cotto, James Kirkland, Shane Mosley, and Gennadiy Golovkin, among others. Paulie Malignaggi, speaking to ProBox TV, highlighted that while Canelo is undoubtedly a great fighter, he may not belong in the “best Mexican fighter ever” conversation.
The debate around Canelo’s legacy is further complicated by the fact that many boxing greats, including Floyd Mayweather, have faced similar criticisms. Malignaggi points out that while Canelo is undoubtedly among the generational greats, his approach to choosing opponents differs from legends like Salvador Sanchez, who consistently chased top fighters in their prime.
In conclusion, while Canelo Alvarez remains a significant figure in boxing, his legacy continues to be a topic of debate among fans and experts alike. Whether he’s overrated or simply a product of strategic matchmaking, only time will tell.
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