Top 10 Canelo Álvarez Boxing Matches

Saúl “Canelo” Álvarez, the Mexican boxing sensation, has carved a legacy in the sport that few can rival. Known for his powerful punches, exceptional defensive skills, and tactical acumen, Canelo has faced and defeated some of the biggest names in boxing across multiple weight classes. This blog post delves into the top 10 boxing matches that have defined his illustrious career.

1. Canelo Álvarez vs. Floyd Mayweather Jr. (2013)

Date: September 14, 2013
Venue: MGM Grand Garden Arena, Las Vegas, Nevada

Although this fight ended in a loss for Canelo Alvarez, it remains a significant milestone in his career. At just 23, Canelo faced the undefeated Floyd Mayweather Jr., a master of defensive boxing. The bout was a tactical chess match, with Mayweather demonstrating his superior ring IQ and defensive prowess. Canelo, despite losing by majority decision, gained invaluable experience that would shape his future fights. This match was a critical learning curve, highlighting areas for growth in Canelo’s technique and strategy.

2. Canelo Álvarez vs. Gennady Golovkin I (2017)

Date: September 16, 2017
Venue: T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas, Nevada

The highly anticipated clash between Canelo and Gennady “GGG” Golovkin was a fight for the ages. Both fighters were known for their power and resilience, making this middleweight bout a thrilling spectacle. The fight ended in a controversial split draw, with judges divided on the winner. Canelo showcased his defensive skills and counterpunching ability, while Golovkin pressed forward with relentless aggression. The result left fans clamoring for a rematch, as the fight highlighted both fighters’ tenacity and skill.

3. Canelo Álvarez vs. Gennady Golovkin II (2018)

Date: September 15, 2018
Venue: T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas, Nevada

The rematch between Canelo and Golovkin lived up to the hype, delivering another epic showdown. This time, Canelo fought more aggressively, taking the fight to Golovkin and landing powerful combinations. The bout was intensely competitive, with both fighters having their moments. In the end, Canelo won by majority decision, solidifying his place among boxing’s elite. The victory was a testament to Canelo’s ability to adapt and improve, marking a significant achievement in his career.

4. Canelo Álvarez vs. Sergey Kovalev (2019)

Date: November 2, 2019
Venue: MGM Grand Garden Arena, Las Vegas, Nevada

Canelo’s jump to light heavyweight to challenge Sergey “Krusher” Kovalev was a bold move. Kovalev, known for his formidable power, was a daunting opponent. The fight was a strategic battle, with Canelo patiently waiting for openings. In the 11th round, Canelo landed a devastating combination, knocking Kovalev out and capturing the WBO light heavyweight title. This victory showcased Canelo’s power and ability to compete across different weight classes, enhancing his reputation as a versatile champion.

5. Canelo Álvarez vs. Miguel Cotto (2015)

Date: November 21, 2015
Venue: Mandalay Bay Events Center, Las Vegas, Nevada

Facing the legendary Miguel Cotto for the WBC middleweight title was a defining moment for Canelo. The fight was a masterclass in technical boxing, with Canelo demonstrating superior timing and precision. Cotto’s experience and skill provided a stern test, but Canelo’s youth and power prevailed. Winning by unanimous decision, Canelo claimed the middleweight crown and further cemented his status as one of the best in the sport.

6. Canelo Álvarez vs. Erislandy Lara (2014)

Date: July 12, 2014
Venue: MGM Grand Garden Arena, Las Vegas, Nevada

The fight against Erislandy Lara was one of Canelo’s most challenging. Lara’s elusive style and counterpunching posed significant problems. The bout was a clash of styles, with Canelo pressing forward and Lara using his footwork to evade. The fight went the distance, with Canelo winning by split decision. This match was crucial for Canelo’s development, as it tested his ability to adapt to different fighting styles and find ways to secure victory against a slick opponent.

7. Canelo Álvarez vs. Daniel Jacobs (2019)

Date: May 4, 2019
Venue: T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas, Nevada

Daniel Jacobs, a formidable middleweight, provided another tough test for Canelo. The fight was a technical showcase, with both fighters displaying high-level boxing skills. Canelo’s head movement and counterpunching were exceptional, allowing him to control the pace of the fight. Jacobs had his moments, but Canelo’s precision and ring generalship earned him a unanimous decision victory. This win unified the middleweight titles and further solidified Canelo’s dominance in the division.

8. Canelo Álvarez vs. Austin Trout (2013)

Date: April 20, 2013
Venue: Alamodome, San Antonio, Texas

Facing Austin Trout for the WBC and WBA super welterweight titles was a significant step up for Canelo. Trout, an undefeated champion, was known for his technical prowess. Canelo showcased his improved defense and counterpunching, knocking Trout down in the seventh round. The fight was closely contested, but Canelo’s power and accuracy led to a unanimous decision victory. This win was crucial in establishing Canelo as a major force in the super welterweight division.

9. Canelo Álvarez vs. Billy Joe Saunders (2021)

Date: May 8, 2021
Venue: AT&T Stadium, Arlington, Texas

Billy Joe Saunders, an undefeated champion with an awkward southpaw style, was expected to be a difficult opponent for Canelo. The fight was competitive, with Saunders using his movement and jab effectively. However, Canelo’s relentless pressure and power took their toll. In the eighth round, Canelo landed a crushing uppercut, fracturing Saunders’ orbital bone and forcing a stoppage. This victory not only unified the super middleweight titles but also demonstrated Canelo’s ability to break down and defeat top-tier opponents.

10. Canelo Álvarez vs. Caleb Plant (2021)

Date: November 6, 2021
Venue: MGM Grand Garden Arena, Las Vegas, Nevada

Canelo’s quest to become the undisputed super middleweight champion culminated in a showdown with Caleb Plant. Plant’s slick boxing and defensive skills posed a unique challenge. The fight was a tactical battle, with Canelo steadily wearing Plant down. In the 11th round, Canelo landed a series of powerful shots, knocking Plant out and achieving undisputed status. This victory solidified Canelo’s legacy, showcasing his determination and skill in conquering all the major titles in the division.

Conclusion

Canelo Álvarez’s career is a testament to his incredible talent, hard work, and dedication to the sport of boxing. From his early days facing seasoned champions to his ambitious moves across weight classes, Canelo has consistently proven himself as one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the world. Each of these top 10 matches highlights different aspects of his growth and prowess, contributing to his legacy as a boxing legend. As Canelo continues to compete, fans eagerly anticipate the next chapter in his storied career, knowing that more unforgettable moments are sure to come.