Two of boxing's top coaches say size may not be what decides the result in the upcoming super middleweight world title bout between reigning undisputed champion Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez and challenger Jermell Charlo.
Alvarez is accustomed to competing at 168 pounds. For Charlo, though, it will be his debut at the weight having won all the belts at super welterweight prior to his September 30 showdown against Canelo.
"The size won’t matter," Robert Garcia — who has trained Nonito Donaire, Anthony Joshua, and Marcos Maidana told ProBox TV and other reporters during a coaching roundtable Wednesday.
"I’m pretty sure when it comes to fight night, they’ll be around the same weight," he said. "It’s gonna be very competitive and I can’t wait."
Bob Santos, known for his work with Hector Luis Garcia, added: "This is gonna be a very competitive fight. People are talking about Canelo being the bigger guy but I’ve been around both fighters quite a bit and I think people are missing that Charlo is a big guy.
"He might be naturally the bigger guy," Santos said. "Canelo has built his body up over time."
When it comes to picking a winner, neither coach believed it would be an easy win for Canelo.
"This is a tough one to pick," said Garcia. "If Canelo wins by knockout, I think it’s under eight rounds. Late rounds is where Charlo could actually stop Canelo. If it goes the distance, I think Canelo edges a decision."
Santos, meanwhile, said: "I won’t be surprised if Charlo wins, but I’m 55-45 leaning towards Canelo. I really think somebody is getting knocked out."
