Floyd Mayweather has dismissed Saul Alvarez as ‘just another opponent’ ahead of their fight for the Mexican’s WBA and WBC light middleweight titles.
The two are to fight on Saturday evening at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas; pundits have said that even though Alvarez is the champion, he will be seen as the challenger.
The Mexican is considered to be Mayweather’s most physical-imposing opponent to date but for all that there are those who believe Alvarez to pose a threat, the champion confident that a career where he has faced pressure fighters, counter punchers, boxers and more has adequately prepared him for his undefeated opponent.
‘I’ve been here before,’ said Mayweather, who has won each of his 44 fights but, it should not be overlooked, appeared uncharacteristically tired and subdued when he spoke.
‘I don’t want to worry about who he’s faced. I was born to be here, born to be at this level. I’m dedicated at my craft. He’s 42-0 but if he fought 42 Floyd Mayweathers he’d be 0 and 42.
‘September 14’s just another opponent, another stepping stone, whereas he’s fighting Floyd Mayweather.
‘If the gameplan’s to maintain pressure, I know how to handle it. If the gameplan’s to box me, I know how to box.
‘I don’t think he can bring anything new to the table that I haven’t seen before and if he does bring something new to the table, I’m the best there is at adjusting.’
Several fighters have had their confidence taken away from them after going a few rounds with Mr Money Mayweather. Ricky Hatton and Shane Mosley are among those to have made promising starts in fights against the multi-weight world champion before he adjusted to handle their styles but Alvarez in unconcerned about what Mayweather says and is confident of victory.
‘He can say whatever he wants,’ Alvarez said. ‘Once he’s in the ring, words don’t mean anything. I had a great preparation. I want to thank my team for working so hard with me.
‘On Saturday night I’m going to be victorious.’