“Lara Predicts Upset: Munguia Has ‘Shot to Beat Canelo,’ Says Former Opponent!”
At the recent press conference in Los Angeles for the upcoming match between Jaime Munguia and Canelo Alvarez, discussions about another potential opponent, David Benavidez, sparked controversy. Canelo made headlines by stating he would require a staggering $150 to $200 million to step into the ring with Benavidez, earning a sharp retort from the latter on social media. However, amidst the financial banter, former opponent of Alvarez, Erislandy Lara, voiced his belief that Benavidez held a significant advantage over the Mexican boxer.
Lara, the current WBA Middleweight champion, emphasized Benavidez’s physical attributes, particularly his height and reach advantage over Alvarez. Standing at 6 feet 2 inches with a reach of 74½ inches, Benavidez presents a formidable challenge to Alvarez, who measures at 5 feet 8 inches with a reach of 70½ inches. Lara expressed confidence in Benavidez’s ability to capitalize on these physical advantages, labeling him as “the monster” of the division.
Moreover, Lara suggested that Benavidez’s aggressive style and volume punching would pose considerable difficulties for Alvarez in the ring. Despite Alvarez’s reputation as one of the sport’s top fighters, Lara remained adamant that Benavidez’s skill set and size would ultimately prove too much for him to handle.
“I think he’s [Canelo Alvarez] asking for a lot of money. But, regardless of the amount that will be offered, I don’t think Canelo has any chance of beating Benavidez. He’s the monster for a reason. And he’s in great shape right now,” Erislandy Lara told FightHype.
In addition to discussing Benavidez’s potential, Lara also weighed in on Munguia’s chances against Alvarez. While Alvarez acknowledged Munguia as a worthy opponent, Lara believed that the younger fighter possessed the tools necessary to pull off an upset. With Munguia’s focus and determination, Lara suggested that he could pose a significant threat to Alvarez’s reign atop the division.
On the other hand, while Canelo Alvarez is 5′ 8″ with a reach of 70½″, David Benavidez is 6′ 2″ with a reach of 74½″ in the ring. Therefore, taking that information into account, the current WBA Middleweight champion added, “Benavidez’s size will absolutely give him a lot of trouble. I believe that Benavidez’s size, height, and also the fact that he connects and throws a lot of punches could be a world of trouble for Canelo.”
The debate surrounding Alvarez’s demands for a potential bout with Benavidez continues to divide opinions within the boxing community. While some, like Benavidez’s promoter Sampson Lewkowicz, acknowledge Alvarez’s status and bargaining power, others, including Lara, question whether Alvarez truly stands a chance against the towering Benavidez.
Alvarez said, “I like this kind of fight because I know it’s going to be a great fight.” At this, while Alvarez expected an entertaining fight, Lara felt Munguia had “a shot to beat Canelo.” “All he needs to do is stay focused, stay motivated, and do what he needs to do,”
As the anticipation builds for future matchups in the boxing world, fans eagerly await developments in negotiations and potential fights between these elite athletes.
