Alvarez, with a record of 60-2-2 and 39 knockouts, hasn’t fought a fellow Mexican boxer since his bout with Julio Ceasar Chavez Jr. in May 2017, which he won by unanimous decision. Despite Chavez Jr.’s past as the WBC middleweight champion, the loss to Alvarez marked a downturn in his career, with subsequent defeats including one against former UFC champion Anderson Silva. Alvarez has avoided Mexican opponents to prevent hindering their careers, aiming to preserve Mexico’s boxing talent. However, he made an exception for Munguia due to his established career and accomplishments, viewing their upcoming fight as a celebration of Mexican boxing tradition. Munguia, undefeated with a record of 43-0 and 34 knockouts, impressed in his last fight by stopping veteran John Ryder in the ninth round under trainer Freddie Roach. Munguia highlighted improvements in game planning and quicker in-fight adjustments under Roach’s guidance, expressing satisfaction with his progress.