Canelo alvarez was my opponent in Mexico, but despite the police protecting me for my own safety, I made new friends.

John Ryder faced a daunting challenge when he stepped into the ring against Canelo Alvarez in Mexico, but he emerged with newfound respect. Canelo, who hadn't fought in Mexico in over ten years, defended his super-middleweight title against Ryder in May. Despite the overwhelming support for Canelo, Ryder won over the fans and left with lasting friendships.

A Night to Remember

Ryder needed police protection due to the passionate Canelo fans, but he turned the situation around and transformed them into supporters. Reflecting on the experience, Ryder told talkSPORT, "There'll have to be some serious bloodthirsty people there to really top Guadalajara. Being driven in armoured SUVs with a police escort to guarantee your safety... it was just massive."

A Friend in Mexico

Ryder expressed his admiration for the Mexican fans and how he has connected with them since the fight. "I've gained a lot of friends from that fight. I'm in touch with a lot of Mexicans now, they love their boxing and they back their own. They're what true fans should be, they just like to see the best fighting the best," Ryder revealed.

Looking Ahead

Now, at 35 years old, Ryder is preparing to face Jaime Munguia, another Mexican boxer and former light-middleweight world champion. Munguia recently switched trainers from Erik Morales to Freddie Roach, which could work in Ryder's favor. "I feel like I'm getting him at a good time... I'm in the twilight of my career and I've learned so much about myself in this past year with the Canelo fight. I feel like this is the best time for me," Ryder shared.