Canelo Alvarez (Image Source: Getty) Canelo Alvarez had a heated exchange with the popular American broadcaster Max Kellerman at the last press conference for his much-anticipated undisputed super middleweight title fight this weekend with Terence Crawford. The exchange, played out in front of UFC president Dana White, was part of a larger discussion regarding the drawing power of boxing compared to mixed martial arts (MMA), and garnered international attention among fans.
Max Kellerman praises Dana White’s influence on combat sports
Max Kellerman was on-site for the press conference and used part of it to praise UFC CEO Dana White for bringing MMA to worldwide prominence. He explained how White was capable of rejuvenating the sport and indicated that the popularity of boxing had faded in comparison to MMA. Kellerman’s comments, especially saying boxing was “not as big as it used to be,” earned some literal boos from the audience.Also Read: Canelo Álvarez reveals he left training camp for daughter’s birth before Terence Crawford fight in Las Vegas
Canelo Alvarez stands firm on boxing’s supremacy
Canelo Alvarez, who has always been a vocal advocate of boxing as a sport, in a direct answer to Kellerman, butted in, saying, “Boxing is always bigger.” Boxing has been a big sport, and always will be, and he stated the need for the sport to be respected and recognized. The passionate defense of boxing in a way that represents the ongoing war between the two sports, and also the way in which Alvarez is fighting for the reputation and stature of boxing.
Canelo not having it! CHECKS Max Kellerman for saying MMA is bigger than boxing!
The exchange not only thrilled those in attendance but it has prompted discussion from fans and analysts alike, breathing life into the decades-long tussle between boxing and MMA on the world stage. Canelo Alvarez’s comments will surely add fuel to the debate over the cultural importance of boxing compared to the popularity and revenue-generating power of mixed martial arts.