In a recent interview, boxing legend Floyd Mayweather Jr. did not hold back his criticism of current boxing champion Canelo Alvarez. Mayweather questioned Alvarez’s willingness to face top challengers, particularly David Benavidez and Dmitry Bivol, casting doubt on Alvarez’s standing in the boxing world.

“If Canelo was the best, he wouldn’t be looking for so many excuses to fight Benavidez and Bivol,” Mayweather stated emphatically. “During my career, I didn’t avoid anyone; I beat them all. Everyone saw, I came out on top. It’s simple: if he wants to compare himself to me, give Bivol his revenge and Benavidez his chance. Otherwise, he would just be the disgrace of Mexican boxing.”

Mayweather’s comments come at a time when Alvarez’s career is under intense scrutiny. Despite being one of the most successful and celebrated boxers of his generation, Alvarez has faced criticism for his choice of opponents. His recent fights have led some fans and analysts to question whether he is avoiding more challenging matchups.

The mention of Dmitry Bivol is particularly significant. Alvarez faced Bivol in May 2022, where he suffered a surprising defeat. Bivol outboxed Alvarez over twelve rounds, handing the Mexican star one of the few losses of his career. Since then, there has been considerable speculation about a potential rematch, but it has yet to materialize.

David Benavidez, on the other hand, is seen as one of the rising stars in the super middleweight division. Known for his power and aggressive style, Benavidez has been vocal about his desire to fight Alvarez. However, negotiations between the two camps have stalled, leading to accusations that Alvarez is avoiding the fight.

Mayweather’s remarks highlight the ongoing debate about legacy and competition in boxing. Known for his undefeated record and willingness to face top contenders throughout his career, Mayweather has set a high bar for what it means to be the best in the sport. His challenge to Alvarez underscores a broader expectation that champions should face the toughest opponents available to cement their legacy.

As Alvarez continues his career, the pressure to take on fighters like Bivol and Benavidez will likely intensify. For now, Mayweather’s words serve as a stark reminder of the standards set by past legends and the expectations placed on current champions. Whether Alvarez will rise to the challenge or continue to face criticism remains to be seen, but the boxing world will be watching closely.