Ryan Garcia’s recent comments have sparked fresh discussions in the boxing community regarding the potential matchup between Canelo Alvarez and Artur Beterbiev. After witnessing Beterbiev’s hard-fought majority decision victory over Dmitry Bivol in Riyadh, Garcia expressed newfound confidence in Canelo’s ability to defeat Beterbiev. However, a comprehensive analysis reveals the complexity and risks associated with such a bout.
Beterbiev, now holding an impressive record of 21 wins with 20 knockouts, displayed formidable prowess in his latest outing. His relentless pressure and knockout power remain his trademarks, making any matchup against Alvarez a potential blockbuster. On the surface, Alvarez’s skill set might suggest a competitive contest, but a deeper dive into their styles offers a sobering perspective.
Historically, Canelo Alvarez has been strategic about his fight selections, especially concerning opponents like Beterbiev. When Canelo ascended to the light heavyweight division in 2019, he notably chose to face Sergey Kovalev, an aging champion, instead of Beterbiev. This pattern continued in 2022 when Canelo bypassed Beterbiev again by opting for Bivol, a fighter who was perceived as less risky. Such choices indicate a consistent hesitance to engage with Beterbiev, a fear driven by the champion’s aggressive fighting style and significant knockout power.
The challenge extends beyond mere preferences; if Canelo is serious about solidifying his legacy and claiming the undisputed title at 175 pounds, a confrontation with Beterbiev is inevitable. Jumping the line to fight Beterbiev would position Canelo as a formidable contender against WBC mandatory David Benavidez, but it would also place him directly in the crosshairs of Beterbiev’s fierce attack.
Dmitry Bivol’s fight plan against Beterbiev showcased a contrasting strategy to what we might expect from Canelo. Bivol maintained a cautious distance, relying on mobility and jabs to survive the fight. While this approach ultimately cost him in the judges’ eyes—a 114-114, 115-113, and 116-112 decision in favor of Beterbiev—one cannot overlook how it prevented Beterbiev from landing devastating punches.
In contrast, Canelo’s inherent fighting style leans more towards engagement, which could play into Beterbiev’s strengths. Unlike Bivol, who was consistently on the move, Canelo would likely seek to exchange blows more directly. The implications of this are significant; positioning himself within Beterbiev’s striking range could lead to severe consequences. Notably, Beterbiev thrives in exchanges, where his compact combinations can wear down opponents, as Bivol discovered.
After the bout, Dmitry Bivol provided insight into the power dynamics between Canelo and Beterbiev. He argued that while Beterbiev’s punches come packaged in combinations and rely on positional advantages, Canelo’s explosive single shots can turn the tide of a fight instantly. Bivol’s remarks suggest a nuanced understanding of boxing power; it’s not always about the sheer force behind each punch but also about the application and timing of those strikes.
Indeed, Bivol’s evasive strategy allowed him to momentarily escape Beterbiev’s clutches. However, this tactic was not effective enough to win the bout. If Canelo adopts a similar strategy, he risks being outmaneuvered yet again. Moreover, if he decides to engage actively, he might find himself facing the consequences of Beterbiev’s impactful punch combinations.
For Canelo Alvarez, the road ahead lies paved with decisions that could define his career. While the prospect of fighting Artur Beterbiev looms large, it also comes with undeniable risks. To prove himself against the powerful light heavyweight champion would require not merely skill but an audacity that Canelo has yet to exhibit against Beterbiev specifically.
In the boxing world, legacy is at stake. A clash between these two fighters could be an enthralling narrative of power, strategy, and determination—one that fans and analysts eagerly await, hoping that Canelo will finally step into the ring with Beterbiev and reveal the depths of his fighting spirit. The clock is ticking, and the anticipation continues to build for this potential epic showdown.