Canelo Alvarez, the Mexican boxing superstar, has faced many hard-hitting opponents in his career. But he's just named an unexpected fighter as the hardest puncher he's ever encountered.
During an interview on the Million Dollaz Worth Of Game podcast, Alvarez surprised many by picking James Kirkland as the heaviest hitter he's faced in the ring. This choice came as a shock to many who expected him to name Gennady Golovkin, known for his knockout power.
Alvarez has fought at various weight classes, from super-welterweight all the way up to light heavyweight. Throughout his career, he's faced many renowned punchers including Sergey Kovalev, Miguel Cotto, Daniel Jacobs, and Shane Mosley. Each of these fighters boasts a knockout ratio of over 80%.
Gennady Golovkin, who Alvarez has fought three times, winning twice with one draw, is famous for his punching power. Golovkin has knocked out 37 of his 42 opponents. Yet, Alvarez didn't pick him as the hardest hitter.
Instead, Alvarez said on the podcast:
"Everybody can say Golovkin, but I never felt that bad like Kirkland. Kirkland hit my arms and it felt like rocks. I say I need to finish this guy right now, because he's going to hit me all the fight around."
Alvarez fought Kirkland in May 2015, winning by knockout in the third round with a powerful right hand.
In his most recent fight, Alvarez beat Edgar Berlanga by unanimous decision last September. There's been a lot of talk about a potential fight with Terence Crawford, but it looks like Alvarez might face someone else next. Talks have started for a different opponent.
As a unified champion who's fought from super-welterweight to light heavyweight, Alvarez has certainly faced his share of hard hitters. But it's Kirkland who left the biggest impression on him.
