'He’s got that Mayan blood!' Ex-UFC champ reveals why Canelo Alvarez will find it hard to finish Jaime Munguia

Alvarez (60-2-2, 39 KOs) was set to fight 160-pound titleholder Jermall Charlo on Cinco de Mayo weekend. However, they couldn’t negotiate contractual terms. The Mexican has lately stayed away from native peers like the two-time super middleweight titleholder David Benavidez. The only other Mexican he faced in the last decade was Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. 

Hence, the main event featuring an all-Mexican extravaganza has already gained prime traction. The undisputed 168-pound champion considers Munguia respectful and disciplined and the perfect hash-out for Mexican pride. Meanwhile, Cejudo does not think Munguia can overwhelm Canelo. However, he remains sure Canelo will not defeat Munguia via decision this weekend.

Jamie Munguia considers a win over Canelo Alvarez will hoist him within the Mexican boxing hierarchy

Jaime Munguia was in the right place at the right time when Canelo Alvarez’s opponent fell through on May 4th. Keeping his Cinco de Mayo tradition alive, Alvarez found the best option in Munguia, who he now faces in a boxing bout on DAZN Pay-Per-View.

At 43-0, 34 KOs, Munguia boasts a gaudy undefeated stat as a former 154-pound titleholder. He had two notable highlights since last year, and outpointing Sergey Derevyanchenko was the first one. This proved one of his stiffest challenges at a time when he was transitioning to a new camp style. Then, he knocked out John Ryder – a common thread between him and Alvarez.

This is a great opportunity to show the world and show myself who I really am.... What I’m ready to do is become world champion on May 4. … I’m different from the opponents he has defeated… I’m undefeated. I’m also very hungry...eager to keep winning. I want to stand out and be among the best. I think [a victory] will be a step toward joining that club… Jamie Munguia via a translator to BoxingJunkie at the DAZN Exclusive Pre-Fight Final Media Day

His current opponent poses a whole new challenge in the form of the former pound-for-pound king. Even Henry Cejudo recently weighed in on this stylistic battle that is yet to happen. With a win over Alvarez, Munguia wants to bolster his resume to the levels of all-time greats like Mikey Garcia (40-1, 30 KOs), David Benavidez, 26-0 phenom Jose Ramirez , and Andy Ruiz Jr.

On average, Canelo is a 5-1 bettor’s favorite. However, no matter how much he reveres the opponent-to-be or understands the significant step up in opposition, he means to finish him. Fighting for his Mexican pride, he now has more motivation to do so.