Canelo-Khan to clash on May 7

02/02/2016 19:32

WBC middleweight champion Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez (46-1-1, 32 KOs) will defend his title against Britain's Amir Khan (31-3, 19 KOs) in Las Vegas on May 7.

The surprising match-up will take place at Canelo's preferred catch-weight of 155 pounds - five pounds below the middleweight limit - which will also accommodate the smaller Khan, a welterweight since 2014.

The venue of the fight has not yet been announced, but will likely take place at the new T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, which opens in April.

Canelo, 25, a former WBC and WBA light middleweight champion, has won all of his last four fights since the only defeat of his career when he lost on points to Floyd Mayweather in 2013.

The Mexican superstar outpointed Miguel Cotto in November to win the WBC middleweight belt and become a two-weight world champion.

"As the middleweight champion of the world, I will take on the best fighters in the sport, and on Cinco de Mayo weekend, I look forward to making the first defence of my title," said Canelo. "Amir was a decorated amateur, a two-time world champion and is in the prime of his career. Fans are in for a great fight on May 7."

Khan, 29, a former WBA and IBF light welterweight champion, has won five fights in a row since a knockout defeat to Danny Garcia in 2012, but faces a huge challenge because he has never faced anyone with the size and power of Canelo.

The Bolton fighter has been chasing a big fight with potential opponents - Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao - opting for other fights, and now he gets the chance to be crowned a world champion for a third time.

"I know Canelo fights the best and wouldn't pass up the opportunity to face me like others have," said Khan. "My goal is to always fight the biggest names and the best fighters. That is why I'm excited for this fight. Also, I would like to thank my team and Golden Boy Promotions for this opportunity. I know I have the speed and ability to beat him and will give my fans what they deserve on May 7."

 


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