Former champion Saul "Canelo" Alvarez is more motivated to win his next fight because of the positive comments coming from boxing greats like Robert Duran and Felix "Tito" Trinidad.

"Canelo," who came out of a third round knockout victory against James Kirkland in May, per BoxRec, told Fight Hype that he is flattered by the praises given by the Hall of Famer Duran.

"A legend like him to say that for me is an honor...it's motivation and I'm flattered that they are saying that. It's extra motivation for me," the Mexican warrior said.

Likewise, he is also thrilled that the Puerto Rican boxing icon Trinidad picked him over his fellow countryman, Miguel Cotto. "Canelo" and Cotto will clash on Nov. 21 at the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas for the World Boxing Council middleweight title fight.

Duran clearly favored "Canelo" to triumph against Cotto, or even any other elite boxer today in his division, basing on his statements, Boxing Scene noted.

"Hands of Stone" said that Cotto is "no longer in his prime" and will not be able to take his challenger's "youth and power." Duran even declared that "Canelo" is boxing's "new star," right after Floyd Mayweather Jr. stepped out of the game.

Trinidad knew it will be a difficult match between the two great fighters, but he placed his bet on "Canelo" to shine that night, per a separate report from Boxing Scene.

"In my personal opinion I think it's a tough fight but 'Canelo' has most of the advantages in this fight. I think he will win," Trinidad said.

Cotto downplays critics

Yet, the WBC champ appeared not bothered by such comments, including Trinidad's choice of winner, another article from Boxing Scene noted.

"Anyone can go with whatever boxer they want. I'm not going to lose any sleep over [Trinidad's pick]. I am not concerned. Felix can choose whoever he wants to win," Cotto said.

Yet, the champion is still willing to do his best for his country, especially that his fight highlights the huge rivalry between Puerto Rico and Mexico in boxing, per Boxing Scene.

"I'm preparing for a war. Every fight is different. I'm taking this fight with Canelo seriously," Cotto said.

The first Puerto Rican native ever to acquire four titles in different divisions, is also recently seen with bruises on his face. Although it sparked rumors that he is having a hard time with his sparring partners, Cotto just shrugged them off by saying those bruises just show "the kind of hard work" he is doing right now, Boxing Scene noted.

Who could be the last man standing between "Canelo" and Cotto?

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