Canelo Alvarez did not hold back when he was asked about Mike Tyson following his damning comments over a proposed fight against David Benavidez.
Canelo, who is undisputed champion at super-middleweight, was briefly linked with a fight against Benavidez before opting to face Jaime Munguia.
The boxing superstar came face-to-face with the unbeaten 27-year-old in last night’s kick-off press conference in Los Angeles, California.
After the presser, the 33-year-old spoke to reporters on the red carpet and was asked about Tyson’s claim.
Mike Tyson starts training camp for Jake Paul fight
Credit: Mike Tyson
Tyson, who is set to face Jake Paul on July 20, accused Canelo of disrespecting the legacy of Mexican boxing by not agreeing to fight Benavidez.
“I can’t believe what I just heard,” the 57-year-old said.
“What’s wrong with Canelo? Is he afraid of losing? Doesn’t he want to give the fans the fight they want to see? Don’t you want to give the fans the fight they want to see?
“Do you not respect the legacy of the great Mexican champions who faced the best regardless of the money?” He asked. “This is a shame for boxing and for Mexico. If I were him, I would accept the fight with Benavidez and show the world that he is the best.
“But it seems he doesn’t have the courage to do it; It is a shame because he has a lot of talent, but he lacks heart.”
Canelo Alvarez and Jaime Munguia pose for for a photo during the launch press conference. Image: Getty
Well, Canelo has now responded, and he’s pulled no punches as he aimed a ruthless dig at the former world heavyweight champion.
Asked if he respects Tyson’s opinion after he called for him to fight Benavidez, the Mexican sensation ruthlessly replied: “I’d respect his opinion if he was sober.”
While Canelo holds the WBA (super), IBF, WBO, WBC and The Ring Magazine super-middleweight world titles, Benavidez is in possession of the interim WBC super-middleweight belt.
The American star boasts an undefeated professional record (28-0), having beaten the likes of David Lemieux, Caleb Plant and Demetrius Andrade.
But he’ll have to wait before landing a showdown with Canelo, who will return to action on May 4 against Munguia.
