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Undisputed super-middleweight Champion Saul Canelo Alvarez (58-2-2, 39 KO`s) returns home after twelve years to defend his laurels at the Estadio Akron, Zapopan, Jalisco, on May 6th during Cinco de Mayo weekend to defend his four titles against Islington southpaw John “The Gorilla” Ryder.
No monkey business at the press conference as both fighters showed mutual respect, with Canelo welcoming John to his home turf in English. A long face to face, ended when Canelo gave a brief nod, and they sauntered back to their respective places at the top table.
John has held the WBO Interim title since last year. Eddie Hearn CEO of Matchroom who was sitting by him, said he had lost a UD to Callum Smith for the WBA title, but had fought a good fight. John (37-5, 18 KO`s) who aged thirty-four, is two years older than Canelo, earned his place here, defeating Daniel Jacobs by split decision, said he`s grateful for this opportunity and the local people have given him a friendly welcome. Attired in a black jacket and a while tee shirt, he said he was looking forward to putting on a great show.
Members of the Mexico City boxing media attended a screening of the presser at Pinche Gringo Restaurant in Polanco. During it, Eddie Hearn said the event which is entitled: “The King is coming home,” will be historic for Mexican Boxing. He also commented: “Every time Canelo fights, the World is watching.”
Canelo was sporting a blue Dior Shirt. Also, round dark glasses until it kicked off. He appears to have recovered from surgery to his left wrist and looks in good shape. He is noticeably shorter than John but more powerfully stocky. He`d entered the building with his Wife and their young daughter. Most of his family including several brothers were there. He said he wants local people to have the opportunity to see him fight and he wants to deliver for his people.
It’s been twelve years since he TKO`d Englishman Ryan Rhodes in the forty eighth second of the twelfth round, during the first defence of his WBC super-welterweight title on a sweltering June evening in the Arena VFG, in Guadalajara.
Canelo is the overwhelming favorite to defeat John Ryder. It`s not often English fighters achieve miracles in Mexico. John H Stracey did so on December 6th 1975 with a TKO in round six over the legendary Jose “Mantaquilla” Napoles in the heart of Mexico City`s Bull Ring. In the words of singer and songwriter Janis Ian: “That was long ago and far away. The World was younger than today.”
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