Aleksejevs v Abdulaev. IBO European title fight preview
Was it the best we have seen Canelo Alvarez perform over the previous few years? Quite possibly. After the fight, he declared:
Nobody can beat this Canelo. I'm a strong fighter all the time. I'm a strong man.
He isn't wrong.
It was a remarkable display from a fighter with something to prove after losing by unanimous decision to Dmitry Bivol, a controversial win against an over-the-hill Gennady Golovkin, and a straightforward victory over a limited John Ryder. He put the doubters in their place.
The best odds bookmakers were willing to put up on Canelo was 1.21 - and he lived up to the favouritism.
Our man, Jevgenijs "The Hurricane" Aleksejevs, gives us his opinion on the fight, why Canelo's experience was always likely to prove a crucial factor, and how he totally deserved the win with an incredible performance of skill and power. Remember, the Hurricane predicted a Canelo win at MightyTips - here's hoping you backed him with any one of the best boxing betting sites in operation at the moment.
The Hurricane knows all about overcoming opponents with precision, accuracy and penetrating force. His recent triumph over Dimitri Trenel was an expedition in ring-mastery, controlling the fight from the off before dispatching the Frenchman to preserve his undefeated record.
He believes there were a couple of instances that stood out in the contest:
Two key moments stand out. First and foremost, it was evident that Charlo felt immense pressure due to the indescribable respect he held for Canelo - for his strength, skill, and experience. This bout showed that Charlo was fully enveloped in the aura of a great opponent, which hindered him from unlocking his true potential.
Secondly, as mentioned in my previous article, Canelo's accumulated experience played a pivotal role in this fight. It's important to note that Charlo couldn't quite box; he was fighting for survival in the ring, directing all his efforts towards lasting until the end. This bout can be compared to a hunt and prey scenario: Canelo was the hunter, and Charlo was the prey.
Canelo has repeatedly stated his wish to move up to the light heavyweight division for a shot at vengeance against Bivol. Still, the Russian is reluctant to go there, especially if the fight is on Canelo's terms. He recently said in an interview:
I already beat him in that division; why should I give him a rematch?
It isn't easy to see how this contest materialises without the Mexican legend giving up some ground.
Instead, he may appease the baying of boxing purists and go for David Benavidez - the current WBC mandatory challenger who faces Demetrius Andrade in a tricky clash this weekend. Alternatively, don't rule out a fight against Jermall Charlo, the brother of Jermell. The storyline writes itself, and viewing figures would be guaranteed.
Meanwhile, IBF/WBA/WBC champion Charlo has been ordered to defend his IBF title against mandatory challenger Bakhram Murtazaliev (21-0, 15KOs) by the International Hall of Fame organisation, with the fight taking place no later than November 9th. He will unlikely agree to the dangerous challenge and will presumably vacate the title to chase the big bucks for a more palatable and marketable match-up.
Don't be surprised to see him face off against Tim Tzsyu, provided the Australian wins his fight against Brian Mendoza this weekend.
Are you a combat sports enthusiast and looking for the best online sportsbooks, UFC sportsbook, or WWE betting sites? Don't forget to check out MightyTips - we specialise in betting site reviews, tips, and much more!
Follow the boxer @ealekseev on Instagram and Youtube for the latest updates on his career. For business inquiries, contact his manager at [email protected].