Canelo Responds to IBF Regarding Mandatory Challengers: "Never Heard of Them"

Former undisputed super middleweight champion (up to 76.2 kg) Saúl "Canelo" Álvarez (61-2-2, 39 KOs) stated that he deserves to fight the boxers he chooses.

"At some point, every boxer goes through this. Oscar De La Hoya, Floyd Mayweather, Julio César Chávez, Mike Tyson – they all did it. In boxing, there are different levels: stars, superstars. And stars create titles, not the other way around. Everyone follows their own path.

When I started, I built my career, fought everyone to create Canelo as he is today. But now, I can't just do what I want.

When the IBF comes and tells me I need to fight this or that person. I haven't even heard of them, but they claim they're my mandatory challenger. I don't want to do what they demand.

Now I want to do what I desire. I am in a position where I can afford it, and I've earned it," said Álvarez.

The last time the Mexican star stepped into the ring was in May against fellow countryman Jaime Munguia (43-1, 34 KOs), winning by unanimous decision. Canelo's next fight is scheduled for September 14 against Puerto Rican Edgar Berlanga (22-0, 17 KOs).