Alvarez headlines first boxing card at Dolphins home stadium

MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. (AP) — With a growing reputation as boxing’s most popular fighter, Saul “Canelo” Alvarez is preparing to showcase his skills at the home of the Miami Dolphins. The Mexican fighter will defend his super middleweight championship against Turkey’s Avni Yildirim at Hard Rock Stadium. It’s the first boxing event at the 34-year-old venue. Floyd Mayweather Jr.’s retirement and Manny Pacquiao’s 18-month inactivity helped Alvarez become one of boxing’s top names. His ability to draw big crowds to football stadiums demonstrates his appeal. The 65,000-seat stadium will be limited to 20% capacity because of the COVID-19 pandemic.