Canelo Alvarez Targets John Ryder In Mexico Over The Cinco de Mayo Weekend-‘Canelo Really Wants To Fight In Mexico, And I Think It’ll Be John Ryder,’ Says Eddie Hearn
Canelo hasn't fought in Mexico for 11 years
According to Matchroom Boxing’s Eddie Hearn, Canelo Alvarez’s next bout will likely be held in Guadalajara, Mexico, on Saturday, 6th May 2023, over the Cinco de Mayo weekend.
This would see Canelo box for the first time in his country for 11 years since he defeated one-time IBF welterweight champion Kermit Cintron in the fifth round at the Monumental Plaza de Toros, Mexico City.
And in the process, he would put his undisputed super middleweight titles on the line. If Alvarez’s comeback is not going to take place in Mexico, it is likely to be organised in Las Vegas, which has become his second home.
The name currently running off Hearn and Canelo’s hymn sheet appears to be the WBO interim super-middleweight holder John Ryder. The latter, (32-5, 18 KOs), beat Zach Parker to grab the interim title.
At 34 years old, Ryder knows this could be his last chance at a big-money fight. In his comments to BoxingScene.com, Hearn said:
“Canelo really wants to fight in Mexico…I think the fight will be in the United States or in Mexico, And I think it’ll be John Ryder. You know, he’s the mandatory. It’s not confirmed, but you know, I feel like that will be the next fight.”
However, following Canelo’s loss to Dmitry Bivol, there have been question marks over his calibre of opposition. A victory against Gennadiy Golovkin was, in truth, against an ageing fighter coming to the end of his career.
While Canelo is slowly working his way back to full fitness following his wrist surgery, the boxing community has been far from impressed.
Reaction To A Canelo-Ryder Bout
Who is John Ryder? Who has he fought? Who has he beat? Come on guys please please don’t insult the fans – funny how canelo’s fans are not saying payday payday for cherries 🍒 just the top guys.
— Alphonso Gill (@alphonsogill23) February 3, 2023
I knew Canelo had no interest in fighting in the U.K. Always said Ryder would be in Mexico‼️🥊 https://t.co/6GCWH10ZbO
— LondonRunzBoxing (@LondonRunz) February 3, 2023
John Ryder to oppose Canelo Alvarez? Seriously? Eddie Hearn must be gotten rid of. #boxing
— Gord McFee (@GordMcfee) February 3, 2023