Canelo Álvarez Reacts to Munguía Win by Judges’ Scorecards: ‘I’m the Best Fighter’
Joseph Zucker@@JosephZuckerFeatured Columnist IVMay 5, 2024
Cris Esqueda/Golden Boy/Getty Images
Canelo Álvarez thought his thought his victory over Jaime Munguía left no doubt as to where he stands in boxing’s pound-for-pound hierarchy.
In his post-fight interview, Álvarez praised Munguía’s abilities but said “he’s a little slow.” The 33-year-old added he felt self-assured in the ring, perhaps too much so.
“I can see every punch. Sometimes he got me because I get so confident,” he said. “… I did really good and I feel proud about it. … I’m the best fighter right now for sure.”
DAZN Boxing @DAZNBoxing”I’m the best fighter right now for sure” 🎤 👑@Canelo on where he ranks in today’s boxing world.#CaneloMunguia pic.twitter.com/D8qJfkgsZW
Canelo was the decisive winner on all three judges’ scorecards, which went 117-110, 116-111 and 115-112 in his favor. He connected on 234 punches to 170 for Munguía while also sending him to the canvas in the fourth round.
It was an impressive showing against an opponent who was fourth in ESPN’s ranking for the super middleweight division.
Not everyone will agree, however, that the outcome reaffirmed Canelo’s status as the top boxer in the world. Shakur Stevenson, for one, would put his money on Terence Crawford in a head-to-head clash.
Shakur Stevenson @ShakurStevensonHellavu fighter Canelo is 💪🏾 Still think Bud beats him
It’s unclear what lies ahead for Álvarez. Bleacher Report’s Lyle Fitzsimmons made the case for a fight with David Benavidez, who’s arguably the top challenger in the division. Taking down Benavidez would unquestionably add to Canelo’s pound-for-pound bona fides.
The two sparked some excitement with their exchange Saturday night.
Michael Benson @MichaelBensonn‼️ Canelo Alvarez and David Benavidez having an exchange after Canelo’s win over Jaime Munguia…
[🎥 @BoxAzteca7]pic.twitter.com/BH812vaseb
Álvarez vs. Benavidez is the kind of battle that boxing is built for as well. On one side you have the champion and on the other is a younger, unbeaten foe who has earned the right for a shot at the gold.
