Canelo's dedication shines through as he adapts to the unusual fight time of 6:00 a.m. local time, set to accommodate prime time viewers in Mexico and the United States. The 34-year-old champion arrived in Saudi Arabia three weeks early to adjust his body clock and avoid jet lag.
"I'm very motivated. I'm really looking forward to it. It's exciting, because it's something new for me," Canelo said, highlighting his enthusiasm for the unique circumstances.
The champion's rigorous training schedule involves waking up between 3 and 4 a.m. and starting sparring sessions as early as 5 a.m. Canelo explained his routine:
"I need to adapt my effort to get up at 4 in the morning, start my sparring at 5, 5:30 or 6."
With 66 fights under his belt, Canelo has achieved champion status in several divisions and fought against the best in the sport. He was once considered the number one pound-for-pound fighter. Now, at almost 35, Canelo fights for personal satisfaction rather than monetary gain.
"In boxing I have already achieved everything,"Canelo stated, hinting at a possible retirement between the ages of 37 and 38, when he feels he has completed his cycle in the ring.
The May 3 bout marks the first of a four-fight deal with the Saudi government. Three fights will take place in Riyadh, with a September clash against Terence Crawford planned for Las Vegas. This arrangement offers Canelo the chance to regain the IBF title and solidify his position as the undisputed super middleweight champion.
Looking ahead, potential opponents for Canelo include a rematch with Dmitry Bivol, who defeated him in 2022, and a fan-desired matchup against David Benavidez. When asked about a possible fight with Jake Paul, Canelo kept the door open:
"I never say no, because you don't know what can happen."
Canelo Alvarez continues to demonstrate why he's one of the best boxers of his era. His iron discipline, impeccable work ethic, commitment, and professionalism set him apart as he embarks on this new chapter in his storied career.