Boxing Rankings Stir Controversy as Canelo Alvarez Secures Top 5 Pound-for-Pound Spot, Sparking Outcry Among Fans

 

Canelo Álvarez, an undeniable modern-day legend in boxing, finds himself under scrutiny in recent times, with public opinion questioning his choice of opponents since his loss against Dmitry Bivol. The controversy escalated when DAZN shared Ring Magazine's top five pound-for-pound list, positioning Canelo in the fourth spot, while Dmitry Bivol, who defeated him, was ranked lower. This ranking decision sparked considerable debate and criticism.

 

Canelo's last bout saw him secure a dominant unanimous decision victory over Jermell Charlo in September of the previous year. In contrast, Bivol added another win to his record by defeating Lyndon Arthur. The inclusion of fighters on the list, which featured Terence Crawford, Naoya Inoue, Oleksandr Usyk, Canelo Álvarez, and Artur Betrbiev in that order, drew varied opinions from fans. However, the focal point of criticism was Canelo's presence on the list and Bivol's absence, perhaps intensified by Canelo being the only one with a flawed record.

 

While other fighters on the list, including Crawford and Inoue, remain undefeated and eager to face any challenges, Canelo has suffered defeats against two opponents and has been reluctant to face fighters like David Benavidez and Crawford, fueling the backlash. When DAZN shared the pound-for-pound list on Instagram, fans expressed their dissatisfaction, leading to a barrage of comments criticizing Canelo.

 

The responses indicated a divide between Canelo and the fans, with one user questioning his presence on the list and favoring Bivol, stating, "Why is Canelo in this [list]? Bivol > Canelo." While acknowledging Canelo's two losses, it is crucial to consider his past opponents and his lengthy reign as a champion.

 

Another user pointed out the absence of Bivol from the list, emphasizing, "Bivol is missing." Despite Bivol not holding undisputed titles and a significant portion of his wins coming from decisions, fans expressed a desire to see him included.

 

Some users asserted Bivol's superiority over Canelo, with one stating, "Bivol over Canelo." The idea of a rematch between Canelo and Bivol was raised, with the anticipation that it would determine the superior fighter definitively.

 

Criticisms extended to Canelo's choice of opponents, with one user highlighting, "Definitely wouldn’t put Canelo there as he’s not fighting the best guys in his weight class."

 

Despite Canelo's numerous accomplishments in the sport, these comments reflect a shift in favor among fans. The question arises: should Bivol replace Canelo on the pound-for-pound list? The responses suggest a growing sentiment that Canelo's standing may not accurately reflect his current status in the eyes of boxing enthusiasts.

- Vladimir Krull