Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez has been a leading name in combat sports for over a decade as he has showcased his elite ability.
With Alvarez only suffering two losses in his career, he is considered one of the greatest Mexican fighters of all time. Dmitry Bivol and Floyd Mayweather are the only fighters who boast wins over the multi-weight champion.
However, in terms of victories on his resume, Alvarez has knocked out Billy Joe Saunders, as well as holding a brace of wins over Gennadiy Golovkin.
To set up the biggest fight of his career against Mayweather, Alvarez had an impressive performance at just 22 years old.
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Canelo Alvarez knocked down and defeated Austin Trout in 2013
In April 2013, Alvarez would take on undefeated fighter Austin Trout (26-0). Meeting in Texas, Alvarez’s WBC World Super Welterweight title was on the line, while Trout had his WBA belt up for grabs.
Alvarez was looking to unify the division, alongside making his sixth title defense. As for Trout, a win over the Mexican would be his fifth time retaining his title. However, it was not to be for the American.
Despite a decent opening to the fight, Alvarez would begin to lead the dance as the rounds progressed. This would eventually lead to Trout getting knocked down for the first time in his career in the seventh round.
A sharp right hand from Alvarez would clearly wobble the champion, who eventually fell to the canvas. However, he was able to return to his feet to keep fighting.
The fighters would hear the final bell in the title unification bout. As the judges’ scorecards were announced, it was Trout who suffered the first defeat of his career.
The contest was scored 118-109, 115-112, and 116-111 in favor of Alvarez.
Canelo Alvarez would face Floyd Mayweather in September 2013
Alvarez’s win over Trout would set up his blockbuster fight with Mayweather. Despite being just 23 years old, Alvarez would be able to test the all-time great.
The pair fought in a huge event in Las Vegas, as the WBA and WBC World Super Welterweight belts were on the line.
Despite Alvarez having some success in the fight, it would not be enough to hand Mayweather the first defeat of his career. Winning by majority decision, Mayweather improved his record to 45-0.
In his next bout, Alvarez bounced back from his first loss with a stoppage win over Alfredo Angulo.