LOS ANGELES — Boxing’s top star and former pound-for-pound king, Canelo Alvarez will fight undisputed junior middleweight champion Jermell Charlo this September 30 in Las Vegas.
Alvarez had originally planned to face Jermall Charlo, Jermell’s twin brother, as part of a three-fight deal with PBC. However, Jermall, a middleweight titleholder, was unavailable due to personal issues, leading to this announced bout instead.
While Alvarez has held titles at 175 pounds, the 33-year-old Jermell Charlo has never competed north of 154 pounds. Nonetheless, Charlo holds a notable 4-inch height advantage and a 2½-inch reach advantage over Alvarez.
Jermell Charlo has more than a puncher’s chance to prevail over Canelo. Charlo is a skilled fighter with only one disputed loss on his record, one that he avenged with a KO victory.
Charlo captured the undisputed junior middleweight championship with a decisive win in a rematch against Brian Castano.
Facing Alvarez, however, will require stepping up big time. Charlo will also contend with the challenge of adjusting to a new weight class, jumping up two divisions to face Alvarez.
While Charlo possesses height and reach advantages, adapting to a higher weight class typically takes time.
The red-headed Alvarez, a former 154-pound champion, has competed in higher weight classes in his last 13 fights, showcasing his strength and punching power.
One barometer that will determine the outcome of this duel is the ability of Charlo to withstand Canelo’s barrage and ring experience.
