The chaos and controversy surrounding Gennady Golovkin and Canelo Alvarez will come full circle in terms of an agreed rematch between the two fighters which will finally take place in Las Vegas on Saturday, September 15th at the T-Mobile Arena. As we all are fully aware, the initial rematch between these two fighters was canceled due to Alvarez testing positive for traces of Clenbuterol in his system. Clenbuterol is a banned steroid substance that has been known to be found in Mexican beef.
Alvarez withdrew from the previous scheduled date of the rematch which was May 5th as a result of the positive testing in hopes of getting a more lenient suspension from the Nevada Athletic Commission. In the interim, there’s been a lot of talk coming from both camps regarding the rematch and the fact that Golovkin feels that he clearly has the advantage over Alvarez and should’ve won the first fight which ended in a draw. There’s certainly a lot of tension and blood boiling between the two fighters which will only build even more anticipation for the rematch in Vegas on Mexican Independence Day Weekend.
Regarding earnings and the purse being paid out, it seems that the Golovkin camp scored a minor victory as they were able to negotiate a 42.5 share of the purse while Alvarez will receive 57.5. It seems that Oscar De La Hoya and Golden Boy Promotions initially was offering GGG a much smaller share of the earnings revenue. The PPV numbers will certainly be much higher in my opinion than they would’ve been if these two fighters hit the ring back in May.
This fight can go either way, and it certainly won’t be lacking in terms of energy and excitement. Golovkin certainly has a chip on his shoulder since he felt he clearly won the first fight. He’s also getting older, currently 36, and there is somewhat of a sense of urgency from him and his camp to clearly show everyone including Alvarez that he is the champion. With enormous punching power, a strong jab, and great balance to set up his power punches, Golovkin clearly has what it takes.
Keep in mind that Golovkin is one of the best fighters in terms of cutting off the ring while using limited movement to stay on top of his competition. He also doesn’t expend a ton of energy while cutting off the ring in the process of preying on his opponents. With a combination of punching power and great range, GGG can control his punching range which leads to a closer punching target and distance of other fighters.
Canelo will use his well know tactics in the ring by drawing Golovkin in to him and hoping to beat him with his counter punches and his great speed. Canelo is also great in terms of reserving energy and allowing opposing fighters to come to him. He typically will move them outside of their striking range which makes them reach in more and more. As soon as he sees them within his range, that’s when he’ll light you up with quick strikes and combinations.
Canelo has great head movement, upper cuts, and he’s great at baiting other boxers while setting up his counter punches. He typically will throw upper cuts from the outside, despite having a stocky build and a much shorter reach than most fighters who utilize this strategy. He’s a very patient fighter who will take his time while allowing the frustration to build against a more aggressive opponent. Canelo is also excellent at avoiding power punches by turning his torso to his left which allows him to trick you and set up counter punches.
This will be a very entertaining fight and one for the ages. I believe that Golvokin is the hungrier fighter and still has something to prove after that first fight in which he felt he clearly won. GGG will prevail in a very hard fought fight that will go the distance and be close at the end.