Boxing expert Paulie Malignaggi has expressed his frustration towards unified super middleweight champion Canelo Alvarez for continuously choosing easier opponents over the more talented fighters in the division. The likes of David Benavidez and David Morrell have decided to move on from the super middleweight division due to being overlooked by Canelo. Instead of facing the best competition, Canelo has opted to face fighters with inflated resumes such as Edgar Berlanga, Jaime Munguia, John Ryder, and Caleb Plant. This has raised concerns over the lack of pressure from sanctioning bodies to make Canelo face his mandatory challengers and his reluctance to step up his level of competition.
Malignaggi believes that Canelo is able to ignore the criticism and pressure to face tougher opponents because of his immense popularity among fans. Despite not showing interest in facing risky fighters, Canelo’s fan base remains loyal and willing to support him regardless of the opposition he faces. This popularity gives Canelo a significant amount of political control in the sport, allowing him to dictate his opponents and avoid criticism from fans and media alike.
Even though Canelo may not be considered the best in his weight class by many, his popularity allows him to maintain his status as a star in the sport. While other fighters have to face the best competition to increase their popularity and earnings, Canelo can continue to face lesser opponents and retain a strong fan base. This has been evident in fighters like Shakur Stevenson, who has faced criticism for taking on softer opposition and failing to increase his popularity as a result.
Malignaggi acknowledges that while Canelo’s approach may raise eyebrows in terms of sporting integrity, from a personal standpoint, it is working for him. Canelo’s ability to draw in fans and generate revenue allows him to continue facing opponents of his choosing without risking his status as a top fighter. Despite being labeled as an ‘old 33’ by Chris Algieri, Canelo’s experience and popularity have enabled him to navigate the sport in a way that suits his career and financial goals.
Canelo Alvarez’s decision to pick and choose his opponents based on popularity rather than talent has stirred up controversy in the boxing world. While some may criticize his approach, it is clear that his success and fan base allow him to continue on his current path without facing significant consequences. The influence of popularity in the sport has shifted the dynamics of matchmaking and competition, with Canelo at the forefront of this trend.