Las Vegas has staged its share of blockbuster fight nights but nothing on the scale of what is coming this weekend. On Saturday night at Allegiant Stadium, the $2bn (£1.47bn) home of the NFL’s Raiders,Saúl “Canelo” Álvarez will defend his undisputed super-middleweight crown against Terence Crawford in front of more than 70,000 spectators,by far the largest boxing crowd the city has ever seen.

Millions more will watch on Netflix, which is carrying the card at no extra cost to subscribers – a first for a fight of this magnitude and a reminder of how the business of boxing is being remade in real time.For decades, the sport depended on pay-per-view. Now it is betting that reach and spectacle can replace a buckling model. The timing is no accident: Mexican Independence Day weekend, when this neon-lit metropolis in the Mojave desert becomes a second home for Álvarez and his flag-draped supporters.

Canelo Álvarez v Terence Crawford: A Quick Guide

What’s happening?

Terence Crawford, the undefeated American boxer who has won world titles in four divisions from 135lb to 154lb, is moving up two weight classes to challenge for the undisputed 168lb championship held by Saúl ‘Canelo’ Álvarez, the Mexican four-weight champion and the sport’s biggest star.

Where and when is the fight?

The scheduled 12-round bout will take place on Saturday night at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, home of the NFL’s Raiders, which is expected to be configured for about 71,835 spectators. It will almost certainly shatter the previous Las Vegas attendance record for boxing: the 29,214 who turned up for the 1982 fight between Larry Holmes and Gerry Cooney at a purpose-built outdoor arena in the Caesars Palace parking lot.

The main card begins at 9pm ET (2am BST on Sunday), with Álvarez and Crawford not expected to make their ringwalks until after 12am ET (5am BST).

What belts are on the line?

Álvarez’s undisputed crown at 168lb is at stake: the WBA, WBC, IBF and WBO titles all on the line. Crawford keeps his WBA belt at 154lb whatever happens.

Where can I watch it?

For the first time in boxing history, a fight of this magnitude will be streamed live globally on Netflix at no additional cost to subscribers. The stream begins at 9pm ET, with undercard bouts leading into the main event.

Undercard:

* Raiko Santana v Vladislav Sirenko, 10 rounds, light heavyweights
* Marco Verde v Sona Akale, six rounds, 162lb catchweight
* Callum Walsh v Fernando Vargas Jr, 10 rounds, junior middleweights
* christian Mbilli v Lester Martinez, 12 rounds, super middleweights
* Mohammed Alakel v John ornelas, 10 rounds, lightweights
* Canelo Álvarez v Terence Crawford, 12 rounds, for Alvarez’s undisputed super middleweight championship

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Canelo Álvarez vs. Jaime Munguía: A Comprehensive Preview

This weekend marks a meaningful event in the boxing world: canelo Álvarez defends his undisputed super middleweight title against Jaime Munguía. The fight, taking place in las Vegas, isn’t just another bout; it’s a clash of generations and a pivotal moment for the sport’s future. It also doubles as the maiden promotion of zuffa Boxing under TKO Holdings, the company formed by the merger of UFC’s parent group and WWE. This is the first boxing show promoted by Dana White, backed by substantial investment from Turki al-Sheikh, and is viewed as the first step in building a rival system of rankings and titles under Saudi control.Behind the scenes, this project is already creating friction with Washington politics.

the Fighters

canelo Álvarez (61-2-2, 39 KOs)

Canelo is a boxing superstar. He’s a four-division world champion known for his exceptional boxing skills, counter-punching ability, and strategic ring generalship. At 33, he’s entering the later stages of his career, but remains a formidable opponent. His recent victories include wins over John Ryder and Jermell Charlo, though the Charlo fight was criticized by some for a perceived lack of competitiveness. Canelo’s power is undeniable, and his ability to adapt during a fight is a key strength.

Jaime Munguía (28-0,22 KOs)

Munguía,27,represents the next generation of mexican boxing. He’s an aggressive, relentless fighter with significant punching power. He’s moved up in weight to challenge Canelo, a risky move that demonstrates his confidence. Munguía has consistently delivered exciting fights, and his undefeated record adds to the intrigue. though, he’s yet to face an opponent of Canelo’s caliber.

The Stakes

For Canelo, this fight is about maintaining his dominance in the super middleweight division and solidifying his legacy. A win keeps him at the top and opens the door for potential future fights against other top contenders. For Munguía, it’s a chance to shock the world and establish himself as a major force in boxing. An upset victory would instantly elevate his status and possibly launch a new era for Mexican boxing.

What to Expect

Expect a dynamic fight. Munguía will likely come forward aggressively,attempting to pressure Canelo and land powerful punches. Canelo will aim to control the distance, utilize his superior boxing skills, and counter Munguía’s attacks. the fight’s outcome could hinge on Munguía’s ability to close the distance effectively and Canelo’s ability to manage the pace and avoid getting overwhelmed. Many analysts predict Canelo will win by decision, but Munguía’s power always presents the possibility of a knockout.

Key Takeaways

• Canelo Álvarez is the clear favorite, but Jaime Munguía is a dangerous opponent.
• This fight represents a clash of generations and styles.
• The event marks the debut of Zuffa Boxing under the TKO Holdings banner.