With a full mariachi band playing, Saul “Canelo” Alvarez, the Lineal Middleweight World Champion out of Guadalajara walked into his training session.
Canelo is set for a headlining fight in Las Vegas against Amir Khan in just over a week. Monday afternoon the defending champ greeted fans and international press at House of Boxing training center in National City.
Canelo is the favorite coming into this fight, but Khan is known for his footwork and being an elusive fighter. It’s a classic speed vs power matchup. Former boxing champ Oscar De La Hoya is promoting the fight through his company, Golden Boy Promotions and was on hand to offer his perspective. “Boxing has evolved in such a way where you have these fighters who are incredible athletes. Back when I was fighting we were chopping wood,” says De La Hoya. “It’s incredible the evolution has been amazing. It’s really fun to watch with Canelo Alvarez when I watch him train here in San Diego where he calls home now, what he’s doing is just amazing.”
Khan is known as a fighter who surprises his opponents with his speed but Canelo says he isn’t worried saying, “My preparation never changes. I always train at 100% because sometimes the one you think will do the least is the one who does the most. So I’m always training at 100 percent and I’m ready to get into the ring and give the best of myself no matter who it is.”
As Canelo left the training center he stopped to take pictures and sign a few autographs. But even through his grin you can see his focus. This fight will be challenge on both sides. Not even De La Hoya can call it but says, “Those two guys have to fight the perfect fight and I just don’t know who’s going to win.”
Canelo vs Khan will take place Saturday, May 7 at the new T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
