The Ukrainian boxer downplayed the Mexican champion’s popularity outside his home country
The boxing world is abuzz following recent comments from unified heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk, who has questioned the global popularity of Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez, the undisputed super middleweight champion.
In an interview with Title Sports Network, Usyk, recognised by many as the best pound-for-pound fighter, responded with irony and scepticism to the Mexican’s assertions about being “the face of boxing”.
“Canelo says he is the face of boxing, he is not the face of boxing in Ukraine, he is not the face of boxing in Saudi Arabia, he is not the face of boxing in Europe. Maybe in Mexico he is the face of boxing, although I don’t know,” Usyk commented, sparking a wave of reactions in the boxing community.
These words resonate especially strongly after Usyk‘s recent victory over Tyson Fury in Saudi Arabia, which cemented his status as the unified heavyweight champion.
Usyk didn’t just deny Canelo‘s prominence on the global stage, but also ironised the Mexican’s impact on the sport.
“I like Canelo, because he’s a strong man for boxing, but from that to being the face of boxing… that’s fine,” added the 37-year-old, hinting that while he recognises Alvarez‘s skills in the ring, he doubts his influence outside of Mexico’s borders.
Who is the face of world boxing if not Canelo?
These statements have not only ignited the debate about who is really the most representative figure in boxing today, but have also put the spotlight on the difference in perceptions between different boxing markets.
While Canelo enjoys enormous popularity in Mexico and in some parts of the United States, Usyk questions his recognition in other parts of the world.
Canelo, meanwhile, is in a period of reflection, deciding his next move in the ring. With a distinguished career and multiple titles under his belt, Alvarez has a few months to define his next target.
On the other hand, Usyk, who remains undefeated with a record of 22 wins, is preparing to revalidate his status as unified champion in a rematch against Tyson Fury on December 21 in Saudi Arabia.
This fight will not only be crucial to his legacy, but could also influence the debate over who is truly “the face of boxing”.
Canelo and Usyk: A rivalry that will never be seen in the ring
The rivalry between Usyk and Canelo, while it may never translate into a fight in the ring, has captured the attention of boxing fans around the world.
Usyk‘s words have called into question the perception of Canelo as the most important figure in boxing, opening the door to an intense debate about the true definition of greatness and popularity in the sport of boxing.
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