This weekend’s anticipated bout between Canelo Álvarez and Jaime Mungia for the undisputed super middleweight title was preceded by a dramatic showdown at the pre-fight press conference.
Álvarez and his former promoter, Oscar De La Hoya, engaged in a heated confrontation, showcasing the lingering animosity between the two. De La Hoya’s speech targeted Álvarez’s criticisms of Golden Boy Promotions and himself, leading to a fiery exchange that required intervention to prevent escalation.
The roots of this clash trace back to 2020 when Álvarez filed a lawsuit against Golden Boy and DAZN, alleging breach of contract. The lawsuit stemmed from disagreements over opponent selection and compensation within Álvarez’s lucrative deal signed in 2018. Despite the subsequent settlement and release from his contract, the rift left bitterness on both sides, prompting Álvarez to establish his own promotion company.
Álvarez’s professional record stands at an impressive 60-2-2, with his only losses against Floyd Mayweather in 2013 and Dmitry Bivol in 2022. Notably, Álvarez’s defeat against Bivol marked a bold move into the light heavyweight division. His most recent victory came in September against Jermell Charlo, solidifying his dominance in the ring.
Facing Álvarez on Saturday is Jaime Mungia, boasting an undefeated record of 43-0 with 34 knockouts. The 27-year-old’s recent TKO win over John Ryder further cements his reputation as a formidable opponent. With tensions running high following the intense press conference exchange, fans eagerly anticipate whether the in-ring action will match the drama of the pre-fight buildup.
