Canelo Alvarez Supports TKO’s Move into Boxing
Canelo Alvarez, one of the most recognizable names in the boxing world, is fully on board with TKO’s entry into the sport. UFC CEO Dana White and Turki Alalshikh recently announced the launch of a new boxing league under the TKO banner, a move that has significant implications for the sport. Alvarez, known for his rigorous training and relentless competitive spirit, expressed his support for the new venture. "I think if it’s the best for the fighters out there, I’m fine with that," Alvarez told CBS Sports’ Brian Campbell. "I think [TKO] is going to do the best for the fighters, I’m pretty sure about that. I’m glad someone takes good care of the fighters, because there are a lot of promoters that don’t take the fighters seriously. I think this is good for boxing and for the fighters, especially."
Alvarez’s Upcoming Fight and Potential TKO Debut
Canelo Alvarez, the unified super middleweight champion, is set to take on William Scull in a high-stakes bout on May 3 at The Venue Riyadh as part of Riyadh Season. This fight is crucial for Alvarez as he aims to become the undisputed champion. If successful, Alvarez hinted at the possibility of his next fight being the inaugural marquee event for the TKO brand. "There’s always an opportunity to fight in September in Las Vegas," Alvarez said. "Those are my dates and everyone knows that. But I need to take care of the May fight first and we’ll see in September. But there’s a possibility to fight in September in Las Vegas and be the first event for [TKO] as a promoter."
MMA News and Highlights
The MMA world has been abuzz with several significant developments. Justin Gaethje, known for his fearless fighting style, had no regrets about the knockout he endured at UFC 300. "I will accept that challenge every single time," he stated, showing his unwavering commitment to the sport. Meanwhile, Dan Hooker shared the gruesome aftermath of his hand surgery following his injury withdrawal from UFC 313, providing a stark reminder of the physical toll of MMA. Magomed Ankalaev, reacting to Brendan Schaub’s comment about the UFC "praying to MMA Gods" for Alex Pereira’s win at UFC 313, emphasized the unpredictable nature of the sport.
UFC 313: A Weekend of High Stakes
UFC 313 is shaping up to be a weekend of high-stakes action. The co-main event is particularly anticipated, with fans eagerly waiting to see who will emerge as the best light heavyweight on Earth. Belal Muhammad, Shavkat Rakhmonov, Dricus du Plessis, Alex Pereira, and Tom Aspinall are among the fighters to watch this weekend. Muhammad has been vocal about the UFC’s handling of his Palestinian flag, adding a layer of personal and political significance to his fight. The medical suspensions following UFC Seattle, including Henry Cejudo’s indefinite suspension until cleared for an eye injury, highlight the importance of fighter safety. The salaries from UFC Seattle also revealed that Song Yadong and Rob Font earned the biggest paydays on the entire card.
Social Media and Fan Engagement
Social media continues to be a vital platform for fighters to connect with fans and build anticipation for upcoming events. Ilia Topuria teased an upcoming announcement, saying, "When we announce it, you won’t believe it. Get ready." This kind of engagement keeps fans on the edge of their seats. Joaquin New Mansa Buckley, a rising star in the sport, asked his followers to list five names in the UFC he would need to beat to be considered a GOAT. The poll for the co-main event of UFC 313 is another example of how fans are actively engaged in the sport, contributing to the excitement and discussion surrounding the event.
Looking Ahead
As the MMA and boxing communities look forward to the upcoming events, the launch of TKO and the fights at UFC 313 are sure to be defining moments. Canelo Alvarez’s support for TKO and his upcoming fight against William Scull add to the excitement. The resilience and dedication of fighters like Justin Gaethje and Dan Hooker continue to inspire fans around the world. Whether it’s the high-stakes action of UFC 313 or the potential for a new boxing league, the coming weeks promise to be filled with thrilling moments and memorable performances. Stay tuned for all the action and don’t forget to follow MMAFighting on social media for the latest updates and insights.
