Canelo vs. GGG: 5 keys for Canelo Alvarez

4. Uppercuts are key

Canelo Alvarez has developed a sharp and spearing uppercut that he can use when countering or to pierce an opponent’s guard. This punch was on full display against Miguel Cotto and Julio Cesar Chavez Jr., albeit the latter made a zombie appear agile. Regardless, Canelo should be able to land his uppercut against Golovkin, who has a tendency to lean forward into the punch and remain static (in spots) behind his high guard.

Because Canelo employs such shifty upper body movement to evade punches, he is able to force opponents to reach, creating opportunities to land his uppercut. Golovkin has tremendous balance, so it’s unlikely that Canelo will leave him swinging wildly at air; however, Golovkin will sometimes allow his foes to throw combinations without offering an immediate reply. In these instances, or lapses, Canelo may find the openings to punctuate his combinations with uppercuts.

Kell Brook had a modicum of success with his uppercut against Golovkin, rocking a forward-leaning GGG on a few eye-catching occasions. Golovkin obviously has a granite chin, but even the uppercuts that Brook landed managed to dislodge his guard/posture and render him vulnerable. Canelo is that much stronger than Brook, and his last handful of wins have reinforced his ability to harness legitimate power when he stands his ground in the pocket.

Of course, Canelo has to be wary of telegraphing his uppercuts. Golovkin’s ring IQ will enable him to land counter hooks or beat Canelo to the punch if the Mexican can’t disguise his uppercuts. Speed and timing will be crucial, as will Canelo’s assertiveness. Throwing an uppercut always necessitates risk, so the most important factor, beyond any set-up, will be Canelo’s confident delivery.