Mexican superstar Saul "Canelo" Alvarez is not concerned with the recent criticism from countryman Juan Manuel Marquez.

Canelo and Marquez, both viewed as icons in Mexico, have had a shaky relationship over the years.

Marquez has often been critical of Canelo's career decisions.

The retired former four division world champion has taken issue with Canelo's position on not facing unbeaten dangerman David Benavidez. Canelo, in several interviews, has said that he's not interested in facing another Mexican fighter and he's often downplayed Benavidez's worth.

Canelo is back in the ring next Saturday night, when he defends the undisputed super middleweight crown against mandatory challenger John Ryder.

The fight with Ryder takes place at Akron Stadium, in the western city of Guadalajara. It will be Canelo's first fight in his native country since he defeated Kermit Cintron in November 2011.

Marquez considers Ryder a "regular fighter, from mid-level on down."

Canelo is not bothered by his take on the fight. 

“All of that is part of this.... there was always criticism at the pass and there continues to be criticism,” Canelo told the AP. "It is a division between the haters and those who support me, which fortunately there are more of."

Canelo, 32, saw action back in September, when he won a twelve round decision over Gennady Golovkin in their trilogy fight.

Should Canelo defeat Ryder, he is likely to pursue a rematch with WBA light heavyweight champion Dmitry Bivol, who outboxed Canelo over twelve rounds in May of 2022.

Marquez believes the moment has now come for Canelo to fight Benavidez - and he rejects Canelo's stance on not facing other Mexican boxers.

“When you are world champion you have to face whoever, be it Mexican, European,” said Marquez. "As a champion I would want to show the world that 'I'm at a higher level and you're not going to beat me.'"

Canelo feels Marquez has always been taken issue with his level of success.

"[Marquez] has always been envious, but his words do not affect me and I do not take them into account," added Canelo.