Will Jaime Munguia Overthrow Canelo as the Pride of Mexico?
Super middleweight contender Jaime Munguia (49-0, 34KO) is on the verge of overtaking the division’s undisputed champion, Saul “Canelo” Alvarez (60-2-2, 39KO), with the Mexican fanbase.
WHY FANS ARE TURNING
It’s no secret that Mexican boxing fans will ride or die for their fellow countrymen. The legendary Mexican versus Puerto Rico rivalry on any level always brings them out in droves. Every generation has enjoyed cheering for one of their own such as Julio Cesar Chavez, Oscar De La Hoya, Canelo, and now Munguia.
Recent news of Canelo possibly fighting champions Jermall Charlo and Terence Crawford has fans extremely upset. Part of the reason for this turn is that the entire community is screaming for him to fight two-time WBC champion David Benavidez.
Despite not having the accolades of Benavidez, Munguia has been thrust into the Canelo sweepstakes. After defeating John Ryder in better fashion than the undisputed champion, fans have been calling for a showdown between the two Mexicans.
Boxing is a business that is also a sport, but it has always been about entertainment, and Munguia provides plenty of that in his fights. In addition, he has publicly embraced fighting Benavidez, whereas Alvarez is dismissive about the fight.
Furthermore, Munguia has maintained that connection with the fans that says, “I am one of you”.
THE PERFECT STORYLINE
Hall of Fame Inductee Timothy Bradley said it best while speaking on Probox TV:
“Munguia is everything Canelo wishes he was with the fans . . . he is the epitome of Mexican style boxing.”
From a financial viewpoint, it has the perfect ingredient for a blockbuster hit. One of the selling points is the classic Old Guard versus New Guard theme, with the pride and face of Mexican boxing being on the line.
If the fight is to happen, the smart money would be to host it in Mexico and wait for the Brink truck to back up to the bank. With the climate shifting toward Munguia, don’t be surprised if this fight happens in 2024.
