The big fights keep coming and this weekend sees Canelo Alvarez aim to defend his undisputed title at super-middleweight against John Ryder.
Here, DAZN looks at ways that both men can enjoy success in the fight.
Canelo Alvarez
Don’t underestimate Ryder
It’s clear to anyone who follows boxing that Canelo Alvarez is obsessed with the idea of facing Dmitry Bivol in a rematch. Canelo was beaten by Bivol last year and he’s made it clear that he wants to revisit the bout at some point. There’s speculation that fight could be next and if Canelo is already planning that contest, he needs to make sure he gets past Ryder and not take him lightly.
Make his experience count
Ryder is no stranger when it comes to fighting on enemy territory. In 2019, Ryder visited Liverpool to take on Callum Smith, but facing Canelo is a totally different proposition. The Mexican star has been at the top of boxing for well over a decade and he handles the big occasion as well as anyone. This event will be nothing new to him but perhaps it could overwhelm Ryder. Canelo should be looking to exploit that by showing Ryder the level he operates at.
Target the body
Ryder’s defence will surely be tight from the outset as he looks to work his way into the fight and take Canelo into the later rounds. Canelo is an expert body puncher, and he should look to hurt Ryder’s mid-section so he can slow him down later in the fight. If Ryder feels Canelo’s power early to the body, then the fight’s second half could be unpleasant for the challenger.
John Ryder
Fight the fight, not the occasion
This fight is a huge deal in Mexico due to Canelo’s popularity and the crowd will be excited long before the first bell sounds. Ryder has been in the ring with many top-level operators and has often given a good account of himself regardless of setting. He must do the same here and just treat this like another fight despite who’s standing in the opposite corner.
Don’t take any early risks
Ryder is an in-your-face fighter who likes to set a fast pace behind a high guard. That approach has worked against numerous high-level fighters, but will it be enough against Canelo? Probably not. If Ryder is there to be hit, then Canelo will find the target and the fight won’t last long if Canelo lands frequently. Ryder should take a look in the first few rounds and do his best to stay in the fight whilst frustrating Canelo who could be eager to put a show on.
Jab, Jab, Jab
Although Canelo has few weaknesses, his two losses, to Floyd Mayweather and Bivol, came against fighters who punched first with their lead hand. Sergey Kovalev also had success with the jab against Canelo before he was stopped late so it’s definitely one approach to take. If Ryder can time his jab well and score success early with it, it could give him a platform to push on and take his fair share of rounds.