Canelo Alvarez predominantly dominated over Jermell Charlo throughout their 12 round may, demonstrating the importance of weight classes, thus securing a victory with a trio of lopsided scorecards in his favor.
In a match that required no knockout, Canelo Alvarez showed Jermell Charlo why weight classes matter in boxing. Charlo, who moved up two divisions, had hoped to score a major upset, but struggled to command respect from Canelo, the undefeated super middleweight champion. Canelo maintained his persistent offensive onslaught, and though he sometimes exhibited a slick jab, most of his focus was on launching ferocious shots at Charlo’s head and body round after round. Throughout the fight, Alvarez, with his power and strength advantage, boldly cut off the ring and pursued Charlo, delivering hefty power shots from every possible angle.
Aside from a few exchanges, Canelo dominated virtually all vital moments of the fight, from start to finish. This dominance was reflected in the trio of lopsided scorecards in his favor, which read 119-108, 118-109, and 118-109. Despite Charlo’s attempts to maintain distance and move side-to-side, Canelo skillfully predicted his every move, releasing his own combinations of punches. Alvarez stated after his victory, “I’m a strong fighter. I’m a strong man. Nobody can beat this Canelo. I love boxing so much. Boxing is my life. Boxing made me the person I am today.”
As the fight wore on, in the sixth round, Canelo cornered Charlo towards the ropes, firing off multiple punches in succession. Charlo endeavored to evade and absorb as little damage as possible, but Canelo landed shots without worrying about retaliation. Consequently, Canelo caused the first knockdown by flooring Charlo with a vicious straight right hand. Although Charlo stood up after an eight-count, Canelo assumed complete control of the fight from that point.
After the fight, Canelo asserted, “I think that’s why we fight 12 rounds. I don’t get that knockout, I get 12 rounds to show I’m the best. I’m the better fighter.” Considering his future options, Canelo is already eyeing the Cinco de Mayo holiday in May 2024 for his return to the ring. When asked about a prospective opponent, Canelo was characteristically straightforward. “I don’t f****** care,” he said, unreservedly welcoming all comers as he looks to build on his latest performance.