Tag Archives: Caleb Plant

Posted on 04/05/2022

By: Hans Themistode

No matter how unlikely his dreams and ambitions appeared to be, Caleb Plant believed it was preordained for him to become the first undisputed super middleweight champion of all time. With Plant already in possession of the IBF 168 pound crown, all that was left for Plant to do was defeat arguably the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world in Canelo Alvarez…no easy task.

Although many believed Plant was in over his head, he battled Alvarez on mostly even ground during their November 2021 showdown. But, despite his efforts, Plant eventually crumbled underneath Alvarez’s relentless pressure, suffering the first defeat of his career via 11th round stoppage.

With the sting of defeat still hanging over his head, Plant is ready to dust himself off and make his way back up the super middleweight ladder. Presently, as Plant works tirelessly on his craft, he’s also sifting through multiple names that have been presented to him for his ring return. While he hasn’t made his decision as of yet, the Nashville Tennessee native isn’t looking for a soft touch.

“There’s a couple names on the table that we’re trying to work on and get figured out,” said Plant on Thaboxingvoice. “I’m looking to get the biggest name, the biggest fight on my way back, then take it up from there.”

Amongst a long list of names Plant is currently mulling over, is former two-time super middleweight champion, Anthony Dirrell. For the better part of the past 12 months, Dirrell has made his feelings well known that he simply can’t stand Plant, even going as far as to say that he “hates” the former IBF trinket holder.

At the age of 37, Dirrell has struggled in the ring as of late. In September of 2019, Dirrell was violently stopped in the ninth round against David Benavidez, resulting in his WBC title getting stripped from him. In 2020, Plant failed to compete at all. For his return in 2021 against Kyrone Davis, Dirrell fought lethargically, resulting in a split decision draw.

Regardless of the lackluster results, Dirrell did bounce back at the tail end of 2021. The Flint, Michigan, native scored a highlight-reel worthy knockout over journeymen Marcos Hernandez.

Throughout most of Dirrell’s career, the 37-year-old has swapped fists with some of the best fighters that the division has to offer. Still, despite his well-established resume, in Plant’s opinion, a showdown between them wouldn’t be competitive.

“He can’t f*ck with me, on any level. He can’t f*ck with me period.”

Posted on 03/29/2022

By: Hans Themistode

It was all falling into place for Caleb Plant.

Long before the Nashville, Tennessee native expressed his desire to become a world champion, and prior to the 29-year-old turning professional in 2014, Plant believed it was his destiny to become the first super middleweight champion of all time.

Following his 2019 victory over Jose Uzcategui, Plant placed a checkmark next to his first goal, as he successfully lifted Uzcategui’s world title. With the rest of his fellow champions spread across numerous parts of the world, Plant was ecstatic as he sat back and watched Canelo Alvarez do all the heavy lifting.

With the pound-for-pound star aggregating the WBC, WBO, and WBA 168-pound titles, Plant found himself just one win away from his self-believing prophecy coming true. While Plant was pegged as a significant underdog heading into their November of 2021 showdown, the slick 29-year-old proved that he wasn’t in over his head.

As the two battled it out in front of a jam-packed Las Vegas crowd, Plant eventually succumbed to Alvarez’s power via 11th round knockout. At the time of stoppage, all three judges scoring from ringside had their contest extremely close. Jude Patricia Morse Jarman had it 96-94, in favor of Alvarez. While Dave Moretti and Steve Weisfeld had it 97-93 and 98-92 respectively, also in Alvarez’s favor.

As Plant has taken the time to reflect on what could’ve been, he’s motivated by the closeness of their initial bout. Now, as he attempts to lick his wounds, Plant reveals that no matter who is placed in front of him, he’ll dispatch of them on his way to facing Alvarez once more.

“I want my rematch with Canelo,” said Plant on Thaboxingvoice. “If I need to beat every other top super middleweight in the division to get my rematch then that’s what I’m willing to do.”

The first stop on Plant’s redemption trail appears to be a showdown against fellow former titlist, Anthony Dirrell. Both camps are currently locked in intense negotiations with all signs pointing toward the pair squaring off within the next few months.

Should Plant pick up the win, he’s well aware that snagging one victory wouldn’t be enough to gain the attention of Alvarez. Ultimately, Plant believes that he’ll need to claim the scalps of much bigger names in the division. Most notably, David Benavidez.

For a number of years, Benavidez has stood obtrusively in the path of Plant. While the eventual goal of the former champion is to work his way back to a rematch against Alvarez, he candidly admits that a showdown against Benavidez is also at the top of his wishlist.

“That’s a fight that I want and that’s a fight that I been wanting.”

Posted on 03/14/2022

By: Hans Themistode

Becoming an undisputed world champion was preordained in the mind of Caleb Plant.

The former IBF super middleweight champion was steadfast in his belief, despite taking on whom many consider the pound-for-pound best fighter in the sport in Canelo Alvarez. While Plant gave the Mexican star everything he could handle, the confetti fell upon Alvarez’s head as he picked up the victory during their November 6th showdown.

With Plant now beltless, he’ll begin his long road back up the super middleweight ladder by taking on fellow former titlist, Anthony Dirrell. As first reported by BoxingScene.com, both Plant and Dirrell have agreed to face one another next, in a yet-to-be-determined venue and date.

In the case of Flint, Michigan’s Dirrell, a showdown against Plant will be viewed as a lofty consolation prize. Initially, the former two-time super middleweight belt holder had expressed a desire to face Alvarez following his jaw-dropping fourth-round knockout win over fringe contender, Marcos Hernandez at the tail end of 2021.

However, with Alvarez electing to take on WBA light heavyweight champion Dmitry Bivol, Dirrell has now set his sights on Plant. For the better part of the past 12 months, Dirrell has openly described his disdain for the former IBF titlist.

In addition to Dirrell landing the opportunity to settle his differences with Plant in the ring, the winner of their upcoming contest will have an even greater incentive waiting. As claimed by BoxingScene.com, the winner of Plant vs. Dirrell will face the winner of the upcoming showdown between David Lemieux and David Benavidez. The two are slated to face off on May 21st, in Phoenix, Arizona for the vacant WBC interim 168 pound crown.

Posted on 01/10/2022

By: Hans Themistode

Caleb Plant has always been a man of few words. But, despite keeping to himself, Plant has noticed an unwanted trend.

For a number of months now, WBC middleweight champion Jermall Charlo has mentioned on numerous occasions that a showdown against Plant was a distinct possibility. Still, while Charlo has been somewhat subtle towards the former IBF super middleweight champion, Plant has grown sick and tired of the noncommittal callouts.

With neither man currently occupying a slot on the boxing calendar, Plant reveals that he’s more than willing to face Charlo towards the tail end of the year.

“You’ve been indirect Jermall Charlo,” said Plant on his social media account. “So I’ll be straightforward. We can figure it out by the end of the year. UR EZ WORK.”

Plant, 29, is still licking his wounds following the first defeat of his career. The Nashville, Tennessee, native was forced to hand over his IBF 168 pound world title to Canelo Alvarez. The two clashed on November 6th, at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. Though Plant fought well, he ultimately succumbed to the power of Alvarez, losing via 11th round stoppage.

Although both Plant and Charlo currently campaign in separate weight classes, the truculent knockout artist has repeatedly stated that he would be more than willing to move eight pounds north to face Alvarez. Now, Plant is hoping that Charlo continues with his plan to move to 168 pounds but for a showdown against himself instead.

For Houston’s Charlo, he’s enjoyed a long and successful title reign at 160 pounds. On June 19th, Charlo made the lone appearance of his 2021 against Juan Macias Montiel. Heading in, Charlo was considered a sizable favorite. But, with the Mexican product unwilling to crumble underneath the bright lights of his first world title shot, Montiel fought a back and forth war.

In the end, despite showing incredible heart and adept skills, Montiel came up short, losing a wide unanimous decision. If the current WBC middleweight champion were willing to drop his world title and make the move to the super middleweight division, Plant has openly offered to become his first fight at 168 pounds.

Posted on 12/22/2021

By: Hans Themistode

If you sat down with Anthony Dirrell and had a candid conversation with him about Caleb Plant, the former super middleweight belt holder’s face will screw up in disgust.

The 37-year-old has never kept his feelings about the Nashville, Tennessee native a secret. In fact, a few days prior to Plant stepping into the ring against Canelo Alvarez, Dirrell couldn’t hold his tongue anymore as he ripped into him.

“How he acts is unreasonable,” said Dirrell to a group of reporters. “It just doesn’t sit well with me. He’s an asshole.”

In addition to Dirrell despising Plant for his overall personality, he heavily chastised him for the level of opposition he’s faced since winning his world title against Jose Uzcategui in 2019.

“He fought bums after he got the belt, period.”

Although Dirrell has expressed his deep disdain for Plant over and over again, the 29-year-old ignored him as he had his eyes set on history. On November 6th, earlier this year at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, Plant attempted to become the first undisputed super middleweight champion of all time. The one-man standing between Plant and what he believed was his destiny, was pound for pound star Canelo Alvarez.

While Plant was considered a sizable underdog heading in, he ignored the betting market and fought Alvarez on mostly even terms. Nevertheless, despite Plant’s will to win, Alvarez proved to be a cut above, stopping the slick hitting southpaw in the 11th round.

As the rivalry between Plant and Alvarez has now officially come to a close, the former IBF super middleweight titlist has turned his attention towards Dirrell. Heading into his showdown against Alvarez, Plant did his best to ignore the critiques of his fellow former titlist. However, while he mostly kept quiet, he heard Dirrell’s words loud and clear.

“It seems like he’s had a lot to say about me,” said Plant during an interview with FightHype.com. “If he don’t like me, he should do something about it.”

Ironically enough, Dirrell was last seen in the ring on the same night as Plant. The rough and rugged contender registered a fourth-round stoppage victory in the co-main event of Plant vs. Alvarez against Marcos Hernandez. Following the win, Dirrell audaciously called for a showdown against Alvarez.

In spite of his callouts, Plant is convinced that he hasn’t done enough to warrant a shot at the pound-for-pound star. If, however, Dirrell wants to prove himself worthy of a matchup against Alvarez, Plant believes a showdown against himself makes all the sense in the world.

“He feels like he deserves the Canelo fight but his last two fights he’s fought middleweights, one of them he had a draw against,” continued Plant. “He made out good this last fight but everyone knows how good of a fight I put up against Canelo. They know how well I did. If he wants to prove he’s worthy of that fight then beat me.”

Posted on 12/16/2021

By: Hans Themistode

Caleb Plant is still licking his wounds and sulking over his defeat at the hands of Canelo Alvarez. The two squared off on November 6th, at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada with every single super middleweight title on the line.

Heading into their contest, Plant was considered a gargantuan underdog. In the eyes of many, the Nashville, Tennessee native was simply in over his head. However, from the moment the opening bell rang, Plant earned his respect. The 29-year-old flashed moments of brilliance. In the tenth round, in particular, Plant landed a seven-punch combination, with the final blow snapping back the head of Alvarez.

While Plant ultimately fought the pound for pound star on even terms for most of their contest, his success came to a sudden end in the 11th. Alvarez cornered his man in the penultimate round before dropping him with a left uppercut. Shortly after, the Mexican product finished off the previously undefeated IBF super middleweight titleholder.

Although their contest took place less than two months ago, Plant has already been spotted back in the gym. While he could opt to sit back and enjoy the fruits of his labor, he would much rather sharpen his tools as he sifts through possible opponents for his next ring appearance.

“I don’t wanna lose momentum,” said Plant during an interview with FightHype.com. “I know I put up a great showing, so I just want to get right back to work and keep the momentum going. Keep fighting big names.”

At the moment, the super middleweight division isn’t bereft of talent. But while Plant could chase showdowns against the likes of David Benavidez and Anthony Dirrell, he has his eyes set on Jermall Charlo.

“I love that fight. Anywhere, anyplace, anytime.”

Currently, Charlo resides one weight class lower in the middleweight division. But, regardless of their weight discrepancy, Charlo has stated on numerous occasions that he would be more than willing to drop his WBC middleweight crown in order to take on Alvarez at 168 pounds.

Nevertheless, the Mexican native has sauntered his way to the cruiserweight division. Should Charlo decide to move up in weight regardless, Plant would love to welcome him. And while he refrained from going into details on how a matchup between them would play out, Plant gave an unambiguous answer when asked who would win.

“Me getting my hand raised, no doubt.”

Posted on 12/13/2021

By: Hans Themistode

Caleb Plant listened to his naysayers doubt his abilities in the ring. Following a super middleweight title reign that lasted two and a half years, Plant walked into his showdown against Canelo Alvarez as a significant underdog.

Yet, despite the ongoing notion that he would be blown away by Alvarez in only a few rounds, Plant experienced significant success. The two tangoed in front of a jam-packed crowd at MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, on November 6th.

In addition to fans and media pundits believing that Plant would be outclassed, Alvarez himself looked Plant square in the eyes during a pre-fight press conference and warned him that he was not “on his level.”

Still, from the moment the opening bell rang, Plant more than held his own. During an explosive sequence in the tenth round, for instance, Plant rattled off a five-punch combination that saw Alvarez visibly frustrated. While the former belt holder would ultimately lose his world title to Alvarez via 11th round stoppage, he’s proud of the gutsy performance he put forth.

“I feel like I went in there and put up a helluva fight,” said Plant during an interview with FightHype.com. “I won a handful of those rounds. Regardless of who you were picking to win, I know I won a handful of those rounds. It could’ve been 6-4 either way, it could’ve been 5-5 but I got clipped. It happens in boxing.”

Although Plant believed he was fighting on even terms with the pound for pound star, the scorecards were slightly more favorable in the direction of Alvarez. Judge Patricia Morse Jarman scored it 96-94 in favor of Alvarez. Dave Moretti and Steve Weisfeld on the other hand, viewed their contest even more lopsidedly in favor of Alvarez, turning in scorecards of 97-93 and 98-92 respectively.

Ultimately, in order to leave the MGM Grand Arena as an undisputed world champion, Plant was in desperate need of a knockout. Although he attempted to up his aggression in the penultimate round, Alvarez made him pay.

With a little more than two minutes remaining in the 11th, Alvarez landed a crushing right hand while Plant was against the ropes. The Mexican star would then follow up his assault with a left uppercut. The force of the blow immediately sent Plant to the canvas for the first time in his career. While he would peel himself up off the deck, the Nashville, Tennessee native crumbled to the canvas again, thanks to the offensive onslaught of Alvarez.

Although Plant was acrimonious with the results, he refuses to allow the first defeat of his career keep him down for long.

“I just got to go back to the drawing board. I’ll lick my wounds and I’ll be back.”

Posted on 12/06/2021

By: Hans Themistode

For months on end, Caleb Plant listened to his naysayers dismiss his chances against Canelo Alvarez. The two clashed with all of the super middleweight marbles on the line on November 6th, at MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada earlier this year.

Though Alvarez stated time and time again that Plant was in over his head, the former IBF 168 pound titlist proved otherwise. In the early goings, Plant used an extremely tactical game plan, boxing and moving, while using short offensive spurts to string together combinations.

Despite his success, Plant ultimately succumbed to the power of the Mexican star in the 11th round. In the opinion of the 29-year-old Nashville, Tennessee native, their contest was up for grabs before things came to a sudden end.

“It could’ve been 6-4 either way,” said Plant to a group of reporters. “It could’ve been 5-5. I feel like I was winning a lot of those rounds. I know I put up a great fight but I got caught in the end.”

The dramatic ending Plant eludes to, came after putting together one of his more stronger rounds. The slick-hitting star dug his feet into the ground in the 10th and blasted away at Alvarez while both men stood in the middle of the ring. Still, even with the momentum firmly in his corner, Alvarez changed the tide in the following period.

With Plant backed into a corner in the penultimate round, Alvarez landed a crushing left hand and then quickly followed up his attack with a left uppercut. Plant, as a result, hit the deck for the first time in his career. A few seconds later, Alvarez rushed over to his foe, landing several unanswered shots until referee Russell Mora waved off their contest.

Even with their contest taking place a month ago, Plant can remember the fight-ending sequence. As well as what he did wrong.

“I was pulling out and I had my hands tight but it kind of came to the inside.”

From the moment Plant signed his name on the dotted line to face Alvarez, he explained that becoming an undisputed world champion has always been his lifelong dream. While he believes he was mere minutes away from having that dream realized, he refuses to sulk on the sidelines for an elongated period of time.

In terms of when the former titlist can expect to be back in the ring, he’s unable to reveal a specific date. That said, Plant assures everyone that he won’t spend much time licking his wounds.

“By the first quarter of next year. I want to keep things moving.”

Posted on 11/12/2021

By: Hans Themistode

Making history usually comes with shocked faces and incredulously raised eyebrows but for Bernard Hopkins, there was nothing out of the ordinary about it.

This past weekend, at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, Canelo Alvarez navigated tricky waters against Caleb Plant to become the first super middleweight champion of all time. Though Plant was a considerable betting underdog, he performed well early on.

Despite showing incredible boxing ability, he ultimately succumbed to the power of Alvarez, losing via 11th round stoppage.

Long before the two swapped fists in front of a jam-packed Vegas crowd, Hopkins had difficulty recognizing who Plant was. While Plant had held his IBF crown for well over two years, Hopkins simply shrugs his shoulders as he continues to admit that before Plant stepped foot inside the ring with Alvarez, he was unfamiliar with his work.

“I didn’t even know who Caleb Plant was,” said Hopkins to a group of reporters. “Seriously, I heard of him but I didn’t know what the guy looked like. I wasn’t familiar with his style and ability.”

Regardless of Hopkins being oblivious to the skillset of Plant, the newly inducted Hall of Famer is surprised by the praise he’s now receiving. According to most pundits, Plant was expected to see his demise in the early portion of their contest. However, it was the 29-year-old who actually frustrated Alvarez to no end.

At the time of stoppage, all three judges’ scorecards were in favor of Alvarez but by reasonably close margins. Judge Patricia Morse Jarman, in particular, scored it 96-94 in favor of Alvarez.

With Plant receiving kudos for giving Alvarez a tougher than expected fight, Hopkins is beside himself. In his opinion, the former titleholder shouldn’t be on the receiving end of such high recognition for losing via stoppage.

“He basically got his ass whopped. Do you get rewards for getting your ass whopped?”

Posted on 11/08/2021

By: Hans Themistode

Caleb Plant should hold his head up high, even in defeat.

Even with the 29-year-old suffering the first loss of his career at the hands of Canelo Alvarez this past weekend, his name and stature took a considerable leap forward. In the eyes of many, Plant was simply overmatched and in over his head. And while he ultimately came up short, he showed a ton of heart and incredible skill.

Now, after dropping his IBF super middleweight title, the rebuilding process will soon begin. With the end of the year just around the corner, we don’t expect to see Plant in the ring until the first quarter of 2022. The question now turns to, who should he take on next?

Could Plant take on a soft touch to get his feet wet in his ring return? Sure he could. Should he? Absolutely not. Plant has all of the momentum in the world and if he expects to get back into the title hunt, he needs a big fight in his return to the ring. So who exactly should he take on? Keep reading to find out.

Jermall Charlo

Jermall Charlo knows the move to the super middleweight division is an inevitable one. After winning world titles at both 154 and 160 pounds, it appears as though Charlo isn’t able to get the sort of fights that he craves.

So, with the likes of Demetrius Andrade, and Gennadiy Golovkin out of his grasp, Charlo could be on his way to the super middleweight division. In fact, he’s openly admitted that he would have no problem making the move to face Alvarez.

While Charlo could ultimately get his wish, it would make a ton more sense for him to move up and face an established 168 pounder like Plant before facing Alvarez. As for how they match up, it’ll be Plant’s pure boxing ability against Charlo’s aggression and power. Sign us up for that one.

Anthony Dirrell

This one seems like the most logical choice.

Before Plant stepped through the ropes against Alvarez at MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, Anthony Dirrell scored the performance of the night. The now 37-year-old registered a clean one-punch knockout over fringe contender Marcos Hernandez.

Not only did Dirrell steal the show but there’s also a storyline behind a matchup between himself and Plant. Just a few days before the event took place, Dirrell openly admitted that he “hates” Caleb Plant. In addition to that, Dirrell also called him out on several occasions.

Will Dirrell still be interested in facing Plant considering that he doesn’t have a world title anymore? That could play a factor. However, if Dirrell is willing to settle his differences with Plant in the ring, this would be the perfect matchup to make for both men.

David Benavidez vs. Kyrone Davis winner

In terms of which fight would bring the most eyeballs to the television screen, this one would be ranked number one.

For a number of years now, both David Benavidez and Caleb Plant have hurled insults at one another. From Benavidez stating that he’ll hurt his fellow 168-pound contender to Plant poking fun at Benavidez for losing his WBC title on two separate occasions, their issue with one another has reached its breaking point.

Simply put, this is a fight that has to happen. But, with Benavidez set to take on Kyrone Davis on November 13th, we can’t simply dismiss the chances of Davis. After all, he did score a split decision draw in his most recent contest against Anthony Dirrell.

Still, while Davis should be respected, Benavidez is considered an overwhelming favorite. If he’s able to do what most are expecting, a matchup between himself and Plant makes all the sense in the world.

Posted on 11/08/2021

By: Hans Themistode

Teofimo Lopez was in awe as he sat in his ringside seat.

The unified 135-pound titlist was thoroughly impressed as he witnessed history at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada, this past weekend. On the night, Canelo Alvarez would go on to solve a trickier than expected puzzle in former IBF super middleweight champion, Caleb Plant. With the win, Alvarez became the first undisputed 168-pound titlist of all time.

With Lopez scheduled to defend his WBA, WBO, and IBF super lightweight world titles against mandatory challenger George Kambosos Jr. on November 27th, the 24-year-old admits that Alvarez has inspired him.

“Canelo man, he’s just on another level,” said Lopez during an interview with Fight Hub TV. “He’s only getting better. This definitely gives me that motivation, even more.”

Alvarez, 31, was viewed as a sizable favorite well before he stepped into the ring against Plant. With the former titlist giving Alvarez all he could handle, Lopez was pleasantly surprised by the way things were playing out. However, as Alvarez began dragging his man into the deep end, Lopez was left amazed as the pound-for-pound star registered the knockout win in the 11th.

“I had it 4-2 halfway into the fight. He won another round, I think about seven or eight but after that, Canelo started adapting more and more.”

Like always, immediately following his victory, Alvarez was afforded all of two seconds to enjoy the results before being peppered with questions surrounding his next possible opponent. Though the Mexican native doesn’t have a clear-cut opponent in mind, he has mentioned facing the likes of Jermall Charlo, David Benavidez, Gennadiy Golovkin, and current unified light heavyweight champion, Artur Beterbiev.

Even with Alvarez admitting that he won’t begin thinking about his next foe until at least January of next year, Lopez believes he knows who would be his most difficult challenge to date.

“I believe Charlo. That fight would definitely be big. Charlo is a dog. He goes out there and wants to make the fight happen. He never backs down. That could be a great fight. That could be a fight where it’s like toe to toe.”

Posted on 11/08/2021

By: Hans Themistode

Some called it arrogance, others believed it was hubris. Yet, in the mind of Caleb Plant, it was simply confidence.

As the 29-year-old Nashville, Tennessee, native marched his way through a large spattering of boos at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, this past weekend, he was fully convinced that he was mere moments away from shocking the world. Standing across the ring from Plant on the night, was pound for pound star Canelo Alvarez.

As the opening bell rang to signal the start of their undisputed super middleweight showdown, most were expecting a quick and easy night for Mexico’s Alvarez. However, as their contest began unfolding, Plant proved to be a far more difficult opponent than many were anticipating. Although the former IBF 168 pound titlist ultimately came up short, losing via 11th round stoppage, his self-belief hasn’t waned one bit. In fact, it’s only grown.

“I’ve bent most the world to my will and done it with nothing but passion and skill,” said Plant on his social media account. “I’ll be back.”

Alvarez, 31, repeated time and time again during the pre-fight build-up that Plant was not on his “level.” Yet, the former belt holder gave the newly crowned undisputed super middleweight champion fits throughout most of the first half of their showdown.

Although the end result was the one Alvarez was ultimately looking for, he went into detail about his exasperation.

“To be honest with you, yea, I was a little frustrated,” said Alvarez during his post-fight interview. “In the second half of the fight, it was exactly how we envisioned it. In the end, we came out with the win. That’s all that matters really. In the end, even though the frustrations were there in the first five rounds, the second part, was ideal.”

While Plant thoroughly outboxed him early on, Alvarez began finding his rhythm down the stretch. He pounded away at the body of Plant in the 10th, before ultimately finishing him off in the following round.

Alvarez landed a picture-perfect right hand at the beginning of the period and quickly followed it up with an uppercut that saw Plant hit the deck. The elusive former world titlist climbed back to his feet soon after but would reacquaint with the canvas after a string of shots from Alvarez.

Though he’s disappointed in the way things played out, Plant believes that he etched his name near the top of the division with his performance.

“I showed I belong on the top level and I’ll be champion of the world again. I’ve never been scared to go big or go out on my shield. Thank you to all the fans and all my supporters.”

Posted on 11/07/2021

By: Hans Themistode

On the outside looking in, Canelo Alvarez appeared just fine. The pound-for-pound star sauntered his way to the ring late last night at MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, and was loudly greeted by a vociferous crowd.

Before the opening bell rang, Alvarez seemed cool, calm, and collected. However, as his undisputed showdown against previously undefeated belt holder, Caleb Plant, unfolded, Alvarez’s emotions began boiling over.

Time and time again, Alvarez found himself chasing Plant around the ring. Even when the Mexican star appeared to have his man cornered, the 29-year-old Plant easily maneuvered his way out of harm’s way.

Throughout it all, Alvarez kept his poker face on as he continued to hunt and stalk Plant all through the night. With that said, in a moment of pure candor, Alvarez reveals that he grew more and more agitated as he swung at nothing but air in the first half of their contest.

“To be honest with you, yea, I was a little frustrated,” said Alvarez during his post-fight interview. “Especially in the first five rounds.”

Despite his exasperation, Alvarez remained calm. While Plant proved to be one of the more elusive fighters he’s ever come up against, the Nashville, Tennessee native began slowing down considerably in the second half of their contest. The consistent body attack of Alvarez forced Plant to breathe heavily through his mouth and the fast feet he’s become known for were nonexistent.

As Alvarez began catching up with his man, he landed thudding blows as a result. At times, Plant firmly stood his ground and attempted to go toe to toe with the heavy-hitting Alvarez. In round nine, in particular, Plant registered a ton of success. He blasted Alvarez with a five-punch combination during the midway point. He then followed that up with a strong jab at the end of the round that snapped the head back of Alvarez.

Still, Plant’s breathing labored. As he became a more stationary target, Alvarez took full advantage in the 11th. He pinned his man against the ropes, connected with a strong right hand, before dropping Plant with an uppercut. Moments later, after crawling to his feet, Alvarez closed the show with a string of hard shots that saw Plant hit the deck again.

With both the win and all four major world titles at 168 pounds in Alvarez’s possession, the Mexican star reflects on the ebbs and flows of his showdown against Plant.

“In the second half of the fight, it was exactly how we envisioned it. In the end, we came out with the win. That’s all that matters really. In the end, even though the frustrations were there in the first five rounds, the second part, was ideal.”

Posted on 11/06/2021

By: Kirk Jackson

“If you would not be forgotten as soon as you are dead, either write something worth reading or do something worth writing.” – Benjamin Franklin

Considering this weekend’s blockbuster event, featuring pugilists skilled at telling stories with their fists, both competitors aim to produce a memorable experience and leave a positive lasting impression.

This historic battle will be for the WBA, WBO, and WBC titles held by super-middleweight champion Saul “Canelo” Alvarez (56-1-2, 38 KO’s) and for the IBF title belonging to Caleb “Sweet Hands” Plant (21-0, 12 KO’s).

Alvarez aims to become the first-ever boxer from Mexico, to gain recognition as undisputed champion in any weight division, in the alphabet/multi-belt era.

“To be undisputed is history for Mexico and for everyone on my team,” said Alvarez to reporters. “To be the undisputed champion is just a great thing for my career.”

“This is very important for my country of Mexico. It’s important for me to become undisputed. It’s one of the most important fights of my life. I’m taking it very seriously and it means a lot to me.”

Plant wants to continue his unconventional path towards prominence.

He understands despite his championship accomplishments, he still isn’t regarded as one of the best fighters in the world and wants to cement his standing. He wants unification, he wants glory, he’ll leave everything in the ring to seize greatness.

“Being undisputed would mean a lot. I’ve sacrificed so much to this sport and I’ve been doing this a long time,” said Plant. “All that work would come down to one moment. I want my name in those history books and that’s the only reason that I’m here.”

“I know that people don’t believe me when I tell them I’m winning on November 6. All those people who tell me that I can’t do something, you live believable lives and you do believable things.”

“I promised myself that I was going to run this all the way to the top, with no problem crashing and burning along the way. I set out to live an unbelievable life and accomplish unbelievable things. Those people who doubt me are the very reason that I’m here.”

“No legacy is so rich as honesty.” – William Shakespeare

While it’s too early to ultimately predict the legacy of each fighter, this match can hold as a solid mark of reference when reviewing in time. There is much at stake for each fighter. Even though Alvarez has positive promotion and narratives spun in his favor across most mass media, there are critics who still question the validity of some of his accomplishments and standing within the sport.

Some of these questions are valid; they make for great debate and dialogue, especially when these topics are given the proper context and analysis. In a way, this fight for Alvarez is a fight for validity of sorts.

For Plant, he looks aesthetically pleasing as a fighter, but considering the lack of numerous great names across his resume compared to Alvarez, the question is how will he look against one of the elite, premier fighters of the sport?

Keys to Victory for Saul Alvarez:

• This is the biggest fight of Plant’s life and it is paramount for Alvarez to apply physical and mental pressure.
• Plant will be best served fighting at distance, so Alvarez must close the distance effectively and efficiently.
• Cut the ring off and control the ring real estate.
• Take the air out of Plant’s tires; attack the body and sap the speed and stamina from Plant.
• Neutralize Plant’s “Sweet Hands” primarily be negating the effectiveness of his jab. Slip and counter the jab; implore effective upper body movement.
• Practice patient hostility. Provide the constant threat of attack and rely on his advantage of experience.

Keys to Victory for Caleb Plant:

• Be attentive and active.
• The jab is key. The jab will have to be strong, stiff, and quick. At times, jab will have to come in bunches to minimize Alvarez’s counterattacks.
• Establish the proper distance to maximize his skill set; fighting from the outside and utilizing his superior height and reach.
• Continuing with the theme of mastering ring real estate, stay off the ropes and do not become a stationary target.
• Plant must punch Alvarez hard enough to earn Alvarez’s respect. He must operate to which he always presents a threat.
• Adaptability is crucial, as Alvarez is vastly more experienced. Plant will have to display dynamic abilities at different times to disguise his offense.

There are many questions that will be answered this weekend. It’s possible, even more questions will arise depending on the outcome and fashion.

One of those questions is will the business of boxing prevail?

The “business” is Alvarez. He is one of the faces of the sport. Perhaps, viewing from cynical but logical lens, from a business standpoint, it makes greater sense for Alvarez to win. Translation, if the fight is close, Alvarez will get the benefit of the doubt. Erislandy Lara, Floyd Mayweather, Gennady Golovkin can attest to that.

Plant must be honest with that reality and must be extraordinary to win and upset the business of boxing and throw off the ecosystem.

Not many, if any, are picking Plant to win. Alvarez is listed by Caesars Sportsbook as a 9-1 favorite to win their Showtime Pay-Per-View main event tonight. Super-middleweight contemporaries Anthony Dirrell and David Benavidez openly expressed their disdain for Plant leading up to this fight.

Another super-middleweight contemporary and most recent foe of Alvarez has his take on the fight.

“I don’t think he’s (Alvarez) the invincible man. I think that Plant’s got a very good boxing brain, he just needs to maintain his distance. Make sure you’re out of distance, don’t just think you’re out of distance because that’s the difference when you’re in with world level and elite level. He’s gotta make sure to be on his game all the way, I think he’s gonna give Canelo a good fight,” former two-division champion Billie Joe Saunders explained to Talk Sport.

“He’s obviously gotta keep it at long distance. Keep it very busy for the first six rounds and finish strong. He’s gotta certainly maintain that jab. Being orthodox – I was southpaw and that causes more problems – so he’s open to more counters obviously than what I would’ve been.”

“You’ve gotta maintain your range at safe distance and box nice, and hopefully the judges score the true boxing scorecards, rather than the name of Canelo.”

There are more lucrative options for Alvarez and for the business of boxing after this fight – should he walk away victorious.

Whether it’s undefeated two-time WBC super-middleweight champion David Benavidez, undefeated two-division (junior middleweight, middleweight) champion Jermall Charlo, even possibly undefeated two-world title (IBF, WBC) welterweight champion Errol Spence.

There’s a key parable, from a fictional character, Peter Parker, “With great power, comes great responsibility,” as that derives from the Christian bible verse of Parable of the Faithful Servant (Luke 12:48): “From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.”

That’s why a lot may be asked of Alvarez. Greatness operates on different standards. More is asked, more is required – fair or unfair. People want to see the best competition possible; at least we’re told that’s what the standard should be, correct?

Fair competition, elite competition, the best facing the best, on equal footing. Establishing clarity in such a murky current dynamic.

Tracing back to Alvarez, how does he want to define his legacy, and how does this fight and accomplishment of unification (should he win) impact that?

Mass media imposes the narrative Alvarez is already an all-time great. That may be a true statement however, critics can point to plenty of discrepancies that can dimmer the light on his legacy.

Alvarez is an outstanding fighter; highly skilled, aesthetically entertaining to watch, extremely focused, tough, gritty, works extremely hard on his craft, those are facts. The history of catch-weights, allegations of PED usage, failed drug tests, preferential treatment from sanctioning are facts as well.

May not be enjoyable information to digest, but the pill of truth isn’t always easy to swallow.

The winners tend to write history, along with claiming fortune, fortune in the form of currency, or in the form of glorious achievement. The pursuit of supremacy.

Posted on 11/06/2021

By: Hans Themistode

Caleb Plant heard the boos loud and clear. As the IBF super middleweight champion climbed onto the scales to weigh in one day before his showdown against unified titlist Canelo Alvarez, the crowd made their feelings known who they were backing.

Not only has the doubters of Plant come in the form of boisterous fans but also, in the shape of bettors. Despite being as high as a 12-1 underdog, Plant has thrown on his blinders and blocked out the noise. But while the Nashville, Tennessee native possesses enough self-belief to push him forward, he’s receiving an additional push from an unlikely outside source.

Just minutes after having a heated final face-off with Alvarez, Plant attempted to make his way out of the arena. However, before doing so, WBC middleweight champion Jermall Charlo marched up to Plant and gave him a few words of encouragement.

“I want you to get this fight,” said Charlo to Plant as they shook hands. “I know you going to get it. Get that dub, I’m with you. You think I like Canelo?”

Charlo, 31, has long expressed a desire to face Alvarez himself. Even now, with world titles spread across two weight classes, and a long list of credible names he could target next, Alvarez remains the number one target on his list.

Still, in spite of Charlo’s backing, Alvarez is mostly viewed as a level above. While Plant has defended his world title successfully on three occasions, victories against the likes of Mike Lee, Vincent Feigenbutz, and most recently, Caleb Truax – leaves Plant devoid of competition against top-tier opposition.

In the case of Alvarez, wins over Daniel Jacobs, Gennadiy Golovkin, Callum Smith, and Billy Joe Saunders, have pushed him towards the top of every credible pound-for-pound list. Regardless of Alvarez’s high standing in the boxing world, Plant continues to beat his chest while claiming that he’ll become the division’s first undisputed world champion.

Once the opening bell rings at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada, tonight, Charlo will nestle into his ringside seat and watch how things unfold. Ultimately, the night belongs to both Plant and Alvarez and Charlo did his best to not steal any of the limelight.

With that said, he did make it known that the two will tango at some point.

“We going to fight,” said Charlo as he continued his conversation with Plant. “But be safe in there no matter what.”