Canelo Alvarez Drops John Ryder in RD5, Breaks Ryder's Nose in Unanimous Decision Win | FIGHT HIGHLIGHTS

Watch eight minutes of fight highlights from Canelo Alvarez's successful defense of his undisputed super middleweight championship against England's John Ryder on Saturday night at Estadio Akron Stadium in Zapopan, near Guadalajara, Mexico. The bout marked Alvarez's long-awaited return to his adoring hometown Mexican fans after a 12-year absence.

Canelo made a grand entrance with a procession of flag bearers and a surrounding group of approximately 150 mariachi performers. The name 'CANELO' illuminated the venue in colossal letters, accompanied by a display of fireworks from the stadium roof. As the mariachi music played, Canelo finally emerged, donning a green and gold poncho with a crown atop his head.

Very early in the fight, Alvarez's power punches caused significant damage to Ryder. The Englishman's nose was visibly broken in the second round, resulting in profuse bleeding. Canelo continued to stalk Ryder, scoring a knockdown from a perfect jab-straight right combination in the fifth round.

However, despite his best efforts, Alvarez couldn't secure a knockout victory and settled for a unanimous decision win. Displaying remarkable bravery, Ryder battled through his broken nose, even motioning to Alvarez to 'bring it on' after being rocked in round 9, refusing to yield until the final bell.

This fight marked Alvarez's return following surgery on his left wrist last October. During the post-fight interview, Alvarez was asked if he was confident in his left hand, "Not in the beginning," Alvarez said. "I needed a couple of rounds to start punching and knowing I'm good with the hand, but now I know."

Looking ahead, Alvarez expressed his desire for a rematch with Dmitry Bivol of Russia, who defeated him in a decision last May. Alvarez insists that the rematch must occur in the 175-pound division, the same as their previous encounter.

While Bivol has suggested a rematch at 168 pounds for Alvarez's undisputed middleweight title, Alvarez remains steadfast in his preference for the same terms as before. Alvarez's promoter Eddie Hearn plans to initiate negotiations for the rematch in the coming week.