De La Hoya Values Canelo Will Be Difficult When Facing Opponents Like Bivol

Mexican boxer Canelo Alvarez. (Photo: Twitter/@Canelo)

JAKARTA - World boxing legend, Oscar De La Hoya, says Saul Canelo Alvarez will find it difficult to face a boxer whose style is similar to Dmitry Bivol.

Bivol did beat Canelo. It happened last year where he took the lead in a 12-round super middleweight title race. It was the second defeat in Canelo's career after previously losing points to Floyd Mayweather in 2013.

De La Hoya said Bivol had speed, movement in and out, and a combination of punches. This combination made Canelo look confused at that time.

The Mexican believes the style could help Jermell Charlo beat Canelo when the two boxers met on September 30 at the T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas.

"Whatever style you give Canelo who is similar to Bivol, he will have a hard time," De La Hoya told FightHubTV quoted on Monday, September 18.

"Anyone who remains vigilant, anyone who sends a jab in front of his face, anyone who knows how to keep their distance, like Bivol does, Canelo will be in trouble. That's the point."

"Once again, he walked on suction sand. It worked for him all this time. He was used to bringing down his opponents, bringing down them, with great strength. You can take advantage of him (Canelo Alvarez), Charlo, if you know how to use distance," continued De La Hoya.

The legend adds, "The distance you get with your feet, the distance you clearly use with your jab, you keep your distance. But if you know how to combine footwork with a jab or right hand or combination, it's the perfect combination to win a fight against Canelo."

De La Hoya itself is actually a promoter of Canelo. However, the two separated in 2020 due to the feud.

Over the next few years, Canelo fought more under Eddie Hearn's Matchroom Boxing. But he changed partners earlier this year when he signed a three-fight contract with Al Haymon's Premier Boxing Champions.