Shane Mosley, one of boxing’s greats, has thrown down the gauntlet, challenging Jaime Munguia to seize the opportunity to secure an unexpected win against Canelo Alvarez; according to the retired Hall of Famer, it’s now or never for Munguia.
“Listen, kid. You have to believe in yourself. Fight your fight. You’re young, strong and straight up, you can surprise Canelo”, Mosley personally commented, setting the tone for an intriguing run-up to the potential faceoff. “It’s now or never”, he added. Mosley believes in the underdog story; he has been one in the past and he wants Munguia to seize the moment. He’s not putting many limitations on this youngster.
Munguia is no novice in the ring. With a remarkable record of 38-0, with 30 knockouts under his belt, his capabilities are not to be underestimated. Despite his impressive record, however, the boxing world seems to be thrusting him into the shadows when compared to the shining superstar that is Canelo. But as Mosley points out, the world of boxing thrives on such unexpected surprises.
“Styles make fights, we all know that, and Munguia has a style that can cause problems. He could surprise Canelo”, says Mosley. It’s a fact backed up by his own experience: Mosley himself was somewhat of an underdog when he upset Oscar De La Hoya twice.
Now, the pressure is on Munguia to prove doubt wrong and confirm Mosley’s faith. In the midst of all this, he needs to keep in mind that this isn’t just a challenge, but a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to make his mark in the competitive world of boxing.
Canelo, the current poster child of professional boxing, is the reigning unified super middleweight world champion. Having managed to quash the likes of Billy Joe Saunders and Callum Smith in his last two bouts, he continues to be the favorite amongst professional betting organizations and boxing critics alike.
Yet, underdogs always remain potent dark horses. For instance, a focused and tenacious Munguia could tap into all his experience and talent to craft a night to remember. And who is to say that Munguia doesn’t have the fighting spirit for a surprise win?
Of course, winning against Canelo won’t come easy. The Mexican boxer is known for his exceptional punch combinations, his “iron chin”, and a powerful left hook. Yet, Munguia can exhibit his rangy, more intensely offensive style to put up a good fight.
For Munguia, an upset win over Canelo would not only be a career-defining victory but also a statement to the boxing world. And in the process of making his statement, he could just surprise us all, as Mosley believes. Furthermore, it would underscore the importance of taking risks in the pursuit of greatness and the idea that careful execution and belief can upset the status quo.
So, as Mosley says, “it’s now or never”. Munguia’s possibilities are open. From here, it is down to how he manages his prospects, his tenacity, and of course, his grit when it comes to facing off an opponent of Canelo’s caliber. Can he really surprise us? Only time, and the boxing ring, will tell.
