Podcaster Ariel Helwani has raised the question of whether Canelo Alvarez should try to reclaim the Mexican Independence Day date from the UFC on September 14th. This date has been traditionally reserved for Canelo’s fights, but the UFC has recently started to stage events on the same day to capitalize on the large number of fans. Last year, Canelo gave up the date to the UFC, but this year, the question remains as to whether he should fight to regain it.
One suggestion is for Canelo to fight David Benavidez to secure the September 14th date. However, this matchup seems unlikely to happen due to various factors. Other names that have been mentioned as potential opponents for Canelo include Edgar Berlanga and Chris Eubank Jr. However, Helwani believes that these fighters may not be popular enough for Canelo to challenge the UFC for the date.
Financial Considerations
Canelo’s demand for a significant purse, rumored to be around $200 million, adds another layer of complexity to the situation. Taking a risk against Benavidez on September 14th would require a substantial financial incentive. The negotiations for matches of this caliber can be lengthy, which may have contributed to the dilemma faced by Canelo in securing the date.
The UFC’s presence on the September 14th date poses a significant challenge for Canelo. The popularity of UFC events in the U.S. has grown due to factors such as the fast-paced nature of fights and the excitement they offer. This popularity has made it difficult for Canelo to reclaim his traditional date without facing tough competition from the UFC.
Helwani speculates on the possibility of Canelo attempting to reclaim the September 14th date, possibly by facing Benavidez. However, the risks and financial demands involved may make this scenario unlikely. The outcome of such a battle between Canelo and the UFC remains uncertain, with factors such as fan preferences and financial considerations playing a significant role.
The debate over whether Canelo Alvarez should attempt to reclaim the Mexican Independence Day date from the UFC on September 14th highlights the complexities of modern boxing and MMA promotion. The challenges of securing lucrative fights, pleasing fans, and competing with other entertainment options make such decisions difficult for fighters and promoters alike. Ultimately, the decision regarding the date will require careful consideration of various factors to ensure a successful and profitable event for all parties involved.