Saul ‘Canelo‘ Alvarez is letting his personality show 65 fights into an incredible career.
There’s a notable confidence about the four-weight world champion that, paired with his ever-improving English-speaking, fans are enjoying. It means extended back and forths with his opponents, who are now getting it as good as they give in the run-up to fights.
Despite largely remaining cool and collected when going about his business, the Mexican – currently unified super-middleweight champion – has had a few run-ins that have riled him up. Whether that has been a post-fight exchange with Demetrius Andrade or inflicting a cut on Caleb Plant after a press conference insult, Alvarez makes it clear he’s not to be messed with.
Speaking to PBC, Canelo revealed that it was Billy Joe Saunders who got under his skin the most.
“Billy Joe Saunders – that f***er p***ed me off, that’s why he got what he deserved. Some fighters talk to sell a fight, but I think he’s a bad person and I really enjoyed beating that guy.”
Victory is the best revenge. 😏@Canelo reveals the one opponent who pissed him off more than any other. 😤#CaneloSaunders#CaneloBerlangapic.twitter.com/Wy7ihAjLBO
— Premier Boxing Champions (@premierboxing) August 23, 2024
Back in 2021 Saunders made it his business to wind Canelo up during fight week, and his team got involved too. Outside of the usual taunts and jibes, he had a complaint about the ring size and threatened to pull out at the last minute.
The fight went ahead and, despite Canelo struggling at times to pin him down, he capitalised on Saunders’ tendency to duck under shots by timing a devastating uppercut in the eighth. Saunders would retire on his stool and it was later revealed he had suffered a fractured eye socket from the blow. He hasn’t fought since.
Canelo is next out against Edgar Berlanga, who is trying his best to get a rise out of the champion ahead of fight night.
