James Kirkland will fight Canelo Alvarez on May 9 in what is easily the most important fight of his career. That's why those around him are confused as to why he has ditched trainer Ann Wolfe, under whose tutelage Kirkland is undefeated.
Kirkland has had ups and downs in his career, including promotional battles and a prison stint. With Wolfe in his corner he has been unstoppable though; after getting out of prison he was knocked out in his only fight without her in his corner. Once he linked back up with Wolfe he won his next five fights.
Against Alvarez Kirkland will be trained by Gerald Tucker, a former boxer who was just 5-0-1 as a professional. Kirkland's manager Michael Miller has admitted to being baffled by Kirkland's decision.
"If you're not going to train with Ann at least train with someone who has experience," Miller said. "If you're going to change trainers, train with someone who has trained top fighters. But I tend not to get into that stuff. I haven't asked him why he isn't training with Ann, but she's puzzled too."
Alvarez, meanwhile, is talking confidently about his chances despite Kirkland's reputation as a knockout artist. He has earned 28 of his 32 wins by knockout, and KO'd four of his last five opponents.
"I invite all my fans to witness a high quality event on May 9 at Minute Maid Park, and confirm to them that they won't be disappointed," Alvarez said via Panamerica.com. "I will face a proven and very dangerous rival who comes to fight, but no doubt I will leave that night with the victory."
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