Don't let anyone tell you otherwise – Carlos Baldomir is a big step up for Saul "Canelo" Alvarez. Sure, he hasn't been nearly as active in recent times and likely isn't the same fighter he was several years ago, but don't forget that this is the same Carlos Baldomir who, in 2006, was the lineal welterweight champion on a seven-year, twenty-one fight winning streak, blitzing through Zab Judah and Arturo Gatti before his ride came to an end against Floyd Mayweather Jr. Rugged, straight-forward bangers tend to have something left in the tank even in the twilight of their careers, and are typically very reliable in sorting out the legit prospects from the bogus ones once they're in the ring. Not to mention, old dogs like Baldomir often have a big chip on their shoulder when it comes to dealing with the new kid in town.
Moreover, the jury's still out on Alvarez's true talent level as a fighter. Despite his huge popularity in Mexico, and an undefeated record, he really hasn't shown too much beyond being a cut above local fighters in Mexico and a bloated Jose Cotto. Taking on a legit veteran in Baldomir will answer a lot of questions. Baldomir's chin and endurance is epic, and I'm sure Alvarez knows this, so regardless of any claims to go for a knockout, I anticipate the Cinnamon One to box, box, box over the course of twelve rounds while fighting off the temptation to exchange. Expect Alvarez to be tested on exactly what he needs developed at this point in his budding career – ring generalship, endurance, and ability to handle pressure over the long haul.
I, for one, would love to see an eventual showdown between Mexico's two top prospects in Saul Alvarez and Julio Caesar Chavez Jr. Both are at about the same point in their careers, are hugely popular in Mexico, and are presently making strides in transitioning that popularity into the United States. Best of all – the bad blood between the two camps runs deep. Aside from both fighting over the throne as Mexico's next big thing, Chavez Jr. has an axe to grind with Oscar de la Hoya for twice beating his father in fights meant to establish who was "the" Mexican fighter of their own time. Alvarez is promoted by Golden Boy, which is run by Oscar de la Hoya, who in many ways has become a mentor to the Mexican star whose good looks and crossover popularity was much like his own. Golden Boy, as a promotional organization, also happens to have their own on-and-off tiff with Chavez Jr.'s promoter Top Rank. There's certainly no love lost between the two camps and the drama would likely produce fireworks in the ring.
In the meantime, we'll have to wait as both fighters continue to develop. Expect a motivated Saul Alvarez to outpoint a game but outclassed Carlos Baldomir this Saturday.