As everyone knows perhaps by now, the Saúl "Canelo" Alvarez vs. Gennady "Triple G" Golovkin fight will happen perhaps later in the year. With both camps still undergoing negotiations, such is expected to be a long process.
Now, while that is going on, it doesn't have to affect Alvarez and Golovkin. Both can stay in shape and take the ring, although some risks could be involved such as injuries or even losses. Just the same, it seems to be the best thing for both to make sure they stay sharp.
Golovkin will be the first one to take the ring, likely on April 23. The name of World Boxing Organization (WBO) middleweight champion Billy Joe Saunders was mentioned, but it seems that he wants more money since Golovkin has more reason (title unification) to fight him than the other way around.
Some believe that Saunders may be pushing his luck too soon so with that said, Tureano Johnson is likely to be the one to face Golovkin next. Johnson is the mandatory challenger for the International Boxing Federation (IBF), although it remains to be seen how he can stand up to the power punches of Triple G.
A month after, it will be Alvarez' turn to take the ring. But right now, there are no names confirmed to be his opponent.
Willie Monroe Jr. and Gabriel Rosado have been mentioned, although nothing has been set on stone. That match is likely to take place on May 7, which should be something interesting as well.
Individually, critics and fans will pay close attention to the fighting style of both Alvarez and Golovkin. Will there be something new to show? Chances are there could be some new combos and tactics, a fine prep to the mega bout which will hopefully be finalized soon.
So, do they need to do these interim fights? The fact that both need to stay in fighting form and are still jawing at the details of their contract, such a recourse seems the sensible thing to do for now.
