Canelo def. Chavez Jr. via shutout decision: 5 biggest takeaways

2. Canelo will never be more ready for GGG

Canelo Alvarez vs. Gennady Golovkin should have happened a year ago, but such is the toxic landscape of fight negotiations in the post-Floyd Mayweather Jr. era. Canelo used all of his leverage to delay the Golovkin fight and simultaneously cash in, all while biding his time until Golovkin showed flashes of vulnerability.

But here’s the thing: Canelo Alvarez is a genuinely elite fighter and represents a stern test at the level of Daniel Jacobs for Golovkin. To think otherwise is to ignore Canelo’s development into a complete fighter.

Canelo is a scintillating combination puncher who hits with authority and admirably distributes his shots between head and body. He’s consistently adding new weapons to his arsenal, including a devastating right uppercut that he employed with aplomb against Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. He’s also become adept at slipping punches and employing his jab with variety and intelligence. The only thing preventing Canelo from solidifying top pound-for-pound status is his level of opposition.

Gennady Golovkin will represent Canelo’s sternest test to date by a vast margin. But Golovkin also showed hints of at least losing a half step against both Kell Brook and Daniel Jacobs, the latter fight ending Triple G’s knockout streak and proving that he can be boxed on relatively even terms. With Canelo peaking and Golovkin showing hints of mortality, September is the latest this fight could have been made. Golovkin should be a clear favorite, but Alvarez is ready for him.