Boxing: ‘Canelo’ Alvarez to Face Amir Khan on May 7

All speculation can now end.

WBC world middleweight title champion Saul “Canelo” Alvarez will battle Amir Khan May 7 in Las Vegas. The announcement was first made on Khan’s Twitter feed and was then confirmed in a post from Golden Boy President Oscar de la Hoya, who promotes Alvarez.

A venue was not revealed, but ESPN’s Dan Rafael wrote on Twitter that the contest will likely be hosted at Sin City’s new T-Mobile Arena.

Alvarez, 46-1-1, has won four straight since being outpointed by Floyd Mayweather Jr. in September of 2013. The 25-year-old Mexican has stopped 32 of his opponents inside the distance.

“As the middleweight champion of the world, I will take on the best fighters in the sport and on Cinco De Mayo weekend, I look forward to making the first defense of my titles,” said Alvarez. “Amir was a decorated amateur, a two-time world champion and is in the prime of his career. Fans are in for a great fight on May 7.”

Khan, 29, of Bolton, England, has a professional record of 31-3 with 19 knockouts. He has won five consecutive bouts since being knocked out by Danny Garcia in December of 2011.

“I know Canelo fights the best and wouldn’t pass up the opportunity to face me like others have,” said Khan. “My goal is to always fight the biggest names and the best fighters that is why I’m excited for this fight. Also, I would like to thank my team and Golden Boy Promotions for this opportunity. I know I have the speed and ability to beat him and will give my fans what they deserve on May 7.”