Bradley’s take: Munguia has a path to beat Canelo, but can he get there?

Cinco de Mayo celebrates the Mexican Army’s victory over the French Empire at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. The holiday honors Mexican heritage and has become a Mexican-American cultural celebration. The day honors the bravery and resilience of the Mexican people. Boxing has become a significant part of Cinco de Mayo weekend, with many legendary boxers showcasing their skills.

On May 4, the boxing world will witness another showdown between legendary experience and mature youth. Mexican boxing legend and undisputed super middleweight champion Canelo Alvarez will tangle with undefeated former junior middleweight champion Jaime Munguia in a must-see dance of fists that signifies more than just an undisputed championship match. It is also a battle for respect and a potential passing of the torch. At 33, Canelo is not old, but he has been fighting in the pro ranks for almost 19 years and has 64 fights on his record. The admirable Father Time marches on, undefeated in this sport.

The fight will impact the divisional rankings, as a win for Munguia could push him into the No. 1 position at 168 pounds. The outcome will also clarify the fighters’ positions in their careers. Remember, fans have been calling for a fight between Alvarez and WBC interim champ David Benavidez, a highly skilled young fighter known as “The Mexican Monster.” If Alvarez dominates Munguia, it will clarify his position and maybe determine his future plans. However, if he struggles, it might suggest a different narrative altogether, crushing the dreams of boxing fans worldwide.

Alvarez finds himself in a reflective time warp of fate as he prepares to face a young, hungry fighter in the 27-year-old Munguia. Alvarez will enter a scenario reminiscent of when, as a 23-year-old, he faced the seasoned veteran. He fought the No. 1 pound-for-pound boxer at the time, Floyd “Money” Mayweather, in a battle where experience overshadowed youth. Alvarez now embodies the seasoned champion and Munguia is cast in the role once played by Alvarez.

Source: www.espn.com