Joe Calzaghe delivers honest verdict on whether he views Canelo Alvarez as an all-time great

The career of Canelo Alvarez (63-3-2, 39 KOs) will be spoken about for many years to come. He has faced many of the best fighters during his career, including Floyd Mayweather and, most recently, Terence Crawford. His impact on boxing cannot be overstated, but can he be called an all-time great? Joe Calzaghe recently spoke to Tris Dixon at BoxingScene and discussed the career of Canelo and whether the Mexican can be considered an all-time great.

The career highlights and defining moments for Canelo Alvarez

Canelo’s career will be fondly remembered by many. In his prime, his defence was exceptional, as he used to slip shots and punch off his opponents’ work. His precise punching has been impressive for many years. Many of these qualities he enhanced following his first career defeat, against Floyd Mayweather in 2013.

His performances during the COVID years were brilliant, as he was arguably carrying the sport during these difficult times. He dared to be great and moved up to light heavyweight to face Dmitry Bivol. He ultimately fell short, but it was a typically brave effort from the Mexican. His trilogy with Golovkin will be fondly remembered by boxing fans around the world. 

His chin has been granite since the day he turned professional, never being put down in any fight, despite the great opposition he has faced.

Canelo Alvarez – Joe Calzaghe weighs in on legacy

When talking to Tris Dixon about the legacy of Canelo Alvarez, Joe Calzaghe gave an honest and balanced response:

“When you look at it — you know me — I think, I wouldn’t put him as an all-time great, to be honest, because he had, like you said, he’s lost his biggest fights, but he’s still a great fighter. 

“You know, the amount of fights you’ve had, among the wins he’s had, some great wins, but you know, against the top, top fighters he’s lost, hasn’t he. You know, going from Mayweather, I thought he lost the one (against) Golovkin.

“You know, definitely lost one of the Golovkin fights. You know he’s had a great career, and you know if you’re fighting everybody, you’re going to lose. Father time catches up on everybody, like it already is. Now, I just hope he doesn’t go on too long. And, get beaten by mediocre fighters,” said Calzaghe.