In the world of boxing, price points for bouts can be just as contentious as the fights themselves. The ongoing feud between the boxing greats, Andre Ward and Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez is a case in point, which further intensifies the debate surrounding a potential match between Canelo and another boxing legend, David Benavidez.
Recently, Andre Ward has theorised that Canelo Alvarez is pricing himself out to avoid fighting Benavidez. Ward, himself, a retired professional boxer known for his undefeated winning streak, has suggested that high prices are potentially a strategy from Canelo to dodge a match with the Mexican-American boxer, Benavidez.
Canelo Alvarez, a four-division world champion, has numerous victories under his belt. His achievements, combined with his massive fan base, fuel his net worth and match fees, causing speculation from critics such as Ward. However, is the high pricing for fighting Canelo a strategy to steer away from potential threats like Benavidez?
The speculation stems from the aggressive and fearless fighting style of David Benavidez. A two-time super-middleweight world champion, Benavidez has shown no hesitation to take on Canelo despite the latter’s higher position in the boxing ranks. This willingness, combined with the belief that Benavidez can prove a potent match for Canelo, raises eyebrows about the potential avoidance strategy.
Canelo’s high pricing could potentially act as a deterrent to boxers, managers, and promoters who cannot afford the substantial match fees. Additionally, it could serve as a shield, preventing him from facing opponents who could potentially damage his stellar record.
However, it is essential to note that such allegations regarding the pricing strategy are not new in the world of professional boxing. Any boxer who commands a high price, such as Floyd Mayweather Jr. or Manny Pacquiao, has been scrutinised for implementing similar tactics. It is a common argument whether these boxers are looking for the highest bidder or protecting their reputation by pricing out potential threats.
While Ward’s speculation has not been confirmed, it does bring to the limelight the gripping dynamics of boxing where every strategic move is scrutinised. On the other hand, Canelo has not been one to shy away from challenges throughout his career, and he seems more than capable of handling a match with Benavidez.
Thus, it is essential to remember that boxing is as much a business as it is a sport. While we can hope that the pricing isn’t a disguise for fear, only the actualisation of the potential bout between Canelo and Benavidez can quiet down speculations.
As boxing fans continue to build narratives around these fighters, the business side of boxing and the strategic game-playing behind the scenes continue to be just as intricate and compelling as the bouts themselves. Meanwhile, only time will tell if Andre Ward’s speculation has any ground or if it is just another subplot in the prevailing narrative of boxing.
Until proven, these allegations will remain mere speculations. And if the potential fight does happen, it will be a significant event for every boxing enthusiast around the globe, keen to witness the soaring tension between the two titans.
However, as always, in the world of sports, ticket sales and viewership speak louder than speculations. Whether the pricing is a strategy or merely a testament to Canelo’s worth, only future matches and developments can reveal the truth.
