Saul “Canelo” Alvarez arrived at the Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas with all the symbolism befitting a historic fight. Dressed in an impeccable white suit, wearing dark glasses and escorted by Eddie Reynoso, Chepo Reynoso and Mauricio Sulaiman, the Mexican set foot in the Raiders’ stadium with a firm step. On September 13, in the midst of the patriotic festivities, he will face Terence Crawford in an impressive setting.
The evening, which many dreamed of seeing broadcast on Mexican free-to-air television, was finally reserved for pay-per-view platforms. This deprived the public of the collective ritual of gathering in front of the screen to cheer on the national champion. However, the date still has symbolic weight and Canelo made this clear by sending a forceful message: “On these dates that are so important for Mexico, thank you all and long live Mexico, cabrones”.
The fight that did not reach free-to-air TV
During his presentation, Canelo was close to the fans, handing out greetings, impromptu photos and quick jokes. The relaxed atmosphere contrasted with the seriousness demanded by a duel of this calibre. The Mexican fighter knows that the expectation is enormous and that the recurring question remains whether he still has what it takes to stop Crawford’s style.
Reynoso’s team’s confidence
Eddie Reynoso, Alvarez’s lifelong trainer, did not hesitate to praise his pupil’s virtues. “Canelo has always been one of the best counterpunchers in history,” he said. And when asked about the outcome he expects in the ring, he was categorical: “That’s right, and on Saturday we’re going to prove it by knockout.”
The outfit chosen by the champion was no coincidence. With a white ceremonial suit, Canelo hinted that the night of September 13 will be decisive: a day to celebrate Mexican independence or to pass sporting judgment on one of the most dangerous opponents of his career. The answer will come under the spotlight at Allegiant Stadium.
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