Canelo Álvarez Says He's Open to David Benavidez Fight 'If the Money is Correct'

Super middleweight champion Canelo Álvarez is set to defend his title on Saturday against Jaime Munguia, but he's intrigued by a future fight against a rising star in boxing.

During an appearance on Thursday's episode of First Take, Álvarez was asked by ESPN's Stephen A. Smith if he'd be open to facing undefeated super middleweight contender David Benavidez, and he answered confidently.

"We'll see, why not? If the money is correct, why not? I can fight him Saturday night, too," Álvarez said.

When asked to clarify that he thinks he can beat Benavidez the same night he fights Munguia, Álvarez doubled down on his declaration.

"Yeah of course, of course. I'd beat that guy," he said. "If the money is correct, I'd fight that guy and I'd beat that guy the same night, I don't f--king care."

Despite Álvarez's conviction, he might want a little more time to prepare for a potential fight against Benavidez. The 27-year-old has a perfect record of 28-0 with 24 knockouts. He most recently earned a stoppage victory over Demetrius Andrade in November to retain his WBC interim super middleweight title.

For now, Álvarez (60-2-2, 39 KOs) has his hands full with Munguia, who also has an undefeated record of 43-0 with 34 knockouts. There is also the added layer of Álvarez's rivalry with Oscar De La Hoya, who promotes Munguia under the Golden Boy banner with which Álvarez spent the majority of his career.

The pre-fight press conference on Wednesday was highlighted by Álvarez ripping De La Hoya following some negative remarks.

"He's a f--king assh--e. That's what I say," Álvarez said of De La Hoya. "He's a f--king assh--e. He tries to get attention for him, not Munguia. He's a f--king assh--e. He steals [from his] fighters. F--king p---y. Motherf--ker."

It will all come to a head on Saturday, as Álvarez will be motivated to put away another rising up-and-comer.