Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez backs the new Boxing League created by Turki Al-Sheikh in partnership with TKO. The Mexican superstar thinks it'll be good for boxers and the sport.
Canelo, widely considered the best pound-for-pound boxer in the world, shared his thoughts on the new venture during an interview with CBS Sports.
"I think if it's best for the boxers, I agree. I think TKO will be the best for the boxers. I'm pretty sure of that. I'm glad that someone takes good care of the boxers because there are a lot of promoters who don't take boxers seriously. I think this is good for boxing and for the boxers, especially."
The new league, led by Al-Sheikh, teams up with WWE (chaired by Nick Khan) and UFC (headed by Dana White). It's expected to be based in Saudi Arabia and aims to push boxing back to the top, competing with other popular sports.
Canelo plans to fight Willie Scull in May. There's talk of another fight in Las Vegas in September, which could be the first event for TKO as a promoter.
At 34, Canelo believes he's in his prime. He plans to keep boxing for another 3-4 years.
"I have always said that at 37 years old is a good age to enjoy what I have done with my family, other things in my career and that's what I say; but I said I would debut at 18 and I did it at 15."
Before he retires, Canelo wants to fight at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City.
"Yes, I am interested in fighting at the Estadio Azteca. I would love to have a fight before I retire at the Azteca."
The new Boxing League comes at a time when the sport's popularity has dropped compared to others. Many feel some promoters don't take good care of boxers. Canelo's support for the new venture shows he thinks it could help solve these issues.
