Saul "Canelo" Álvarez, the undisputed super middleweight world champion of the world, showcased held a private media workout at his training camp in Lake Tahoe, that was streamed via various platforms. With his training camp is in full swing, Canelo is in the final last laps of his highly anticipated showdown against Jermell Charlo, the undisputed junior middleweight world champion, who is moving up two weight classes to challenge him. This high-stakes battle is set to headline a Showtime Pay-Per-View event scheduled for September 30 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, to some might c In this historic bout, as Canelo aims to make a third consecutive defense of his super middleweight undisputed crown, with his loss to Dmitry Bivol coming at light heavyweight.
Yet, Canelo has been written off by some as 'not the number one fighter in the sport of boxing', something that Canelo is hearing and not delighted to hear.
“I always believe that I’m number one," said Canelo during his media workout. "My whole career, because you need to believe in yourself. I still believe I’m number one. But I believe there is more than just one fighter alone at the top, there are a few."
After going through the motions, Canelo emphasized his commitment to offering fans the best fights possible, as well as explaining that legacy matters to him. Canelo also reflected on his challenger, who has been very calm prior to this fight unlike previous ones.
“I think Jermell Charlo is the perfect fight right now," said Canelo. "He’s been calling me out for a long time and I never forget. He’s said a lot of things. He never believed in my skills, but he’s gonna find out soon. Him and his brother didn’t believe in my skills and that motivates me for this fight."
It seems that both fighters are fueled by motivation to prove the doubters wrong. Though Canelo feels Charlo might not be respecting his ability he had nothing to say about Charlo being too small for the division or weight class, in fact, quite the opposite. As it appears Canelo's enduring confidence in his abilities, his passion for representing Mexico, and his desire to finish his career on his terms are major factors currently.
“Charlo will be good at 168 pounds," said Canelo. "I’ve made that jump before so I know. I think that when you’re a great champion like he is, it doesn’t matter."
As this marked the first time Canelo hosted a training camp in Northern California in Lake Tahoe. It might not be a fluke that the great golf course Edgewood Tahoe is located nearby as well host of a summer celebrity golf tournament. Canelo overall sentiment is that he is an elite fighters of his generation, and essentially this is a fight to put respect back on his name.
“I feel great. This is really one of the best camps I’ve ever had," said Canelo. "I feel great to be able to train 100% now with my left hand. That’s made me more confident. When you train knowing that you’re healthy, you’ll be more confident in the fight."
