Canelo vs. GGG: 5 keys for Canelo Alvarez

5. Don’t retreat too much early in the fight

Gennady Golovkin is known for his ability to apply steady, punishing pressure and cut off the ring. Generally, opponents perpetually retreat against Golovkin thanks to the accuracy of his disarming jab, his vaunted power and high punch output. On September 16, it’s imperative that Canelo Alvarez doesn’t consistently give ground and concede early rounds.

If anything, Canelo, thanks to his superior hand speed, should be able to score with eye-catching combinations during the first third of the contest as the more methodical Golovkin settles into his rhythm. However, if Canelo is perpetually on his back foot, his punches will lack the necessary snap to keep Golovkin at bay. Essentially, Canelo needs a positive start if he has any intention of winning on points. Golovkin is machine-like in his consistency, and Canelo has shown a tendency to falter late in fights (against viable foes, at least).

This isn’t to say that Canelo can’t look to counter or retreat in spots. What Canelo wants to avoid, though, is simply circling and evading. Canelo does well to pivot, reset distance and dodge punches with upper body movement, and he’ll need to step around Golovkin and fire combinations once he’s re-established range to keep the Kazakh honest.

Ring geography will be crucial in this match, especially early. Canelo has demonstrated a solid ability to fight off the ropes in the past, but this has come against tame foes compared to Golovkin. Canelo can’t get away with posturing when cornered and inviting Golovkin’s fusillades. In fact, if Canelo starts acting macho early, it may be an ominous sign.