Canelo says the Lara fight is personal

Five days before he heads to Las Vegas, popular Mexican superstar and former WBC and WBA Super Welterweight World Champion Canelo Alvarez participated in a media workout Tuesday before dozens of TV cameras, print and internet reporters, bloggers and boxing videographers at the House of Boxing Training Center.

"I've had a great training camp here in San Diego and I'm ready to go,'' said Canelo.

"Every camp is different because we're always training for a different opponent. And, as always, I've worked very hard in this one. But Lara has said so many things behind my back and on social media for such a long time now that, yes, this fight is and has become personal.

"He's a good fighter but he talks a lot. He's offended me. I'm going to have an answer for everything he has said. I'm going to shut him up once and for all.''

Canelo Continued...

(On whether winning is enough)

"I always want to win in spectacular fashion. That is my goal every time I step into the ring. I want to win spectacularly on July 12. But the most important thing is for me to win. I can't promise a knockout but if it comes, it comes.''

(On why he's not fighting for southpaw Lara's 154-pound title)

"Titles are always nice, but for me this fight is bigger than a title fight. This fight is for my honor and glory to bring to the Mexican people. It is a fight for honor and it is a fight that people wanted to see. My fans are the best and I want to thank them for all of their support.''

(On pressure)

"There is no extra pressure on me for this fight. I'm as confident and relaxed as I always am. I'm prepared for whatever Lara has to offer. At this level you have to be able to adapt and make the necessary adjustments. I know I'm coming to fight and I know he's coming to fight. After that, whatever happens, happens.''

(On Mexico's performance in the World Cup)

"Even though they didn't win, I thought they did a good job.''

(On future opponents, weight classes, etc.)

"My focus is solely on this fight. I can start thinking about future opponents after July 12. But I have no intentions of moving up to middleweight. I feel really comfortable fighting at 154 pounds and probably will stay in this weight class my whole career.''