Canelo Álvarez: the Best Latin American Boxer of Recent Times

Santos Saúl Álvarez Barragán, better known in the boxing world as 'Canelo' Álvarez, was born in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, he is 32 years old and is 69.2 inches (1.76 m) tall. Currently, he is the absolute unified world champion of the WBA (World Boxing Association), WBC (World Boxing Council), WBO (World Boxing Organization) and IBF (World Boxing Federation).

Last Saturday, May 6, 'Canelo' faced the British John Ryder, and they disputed the super middleweight title there. For many, this was classified as a “great fight”, since the 'tapatío' managed to knock down his opponent twice, but he remained standing until the end. After 12 years without boxing in the land that saw him grow up, it was his blunt punches that allowed him to significantly affect the Briton. Thus, by unanimous decision, Saúl defended his title at the Akron stadium in Guadalajara.

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The Mexican managed to extend his record to 59 wins, 39 by KO's, 2 draws and 2 losses. He also retains his 12 world championship belts: WBC Super Welterweight, WBA Super Welterweight, WBC Middleweight, WBO Super Welterweight, WBA Middleweight, WBC Middleweight, WBA Regular Super Middleweight, IBF Middleweight, Light Heavyweight WBO, WBC super middleweight, WBA super middleweight super version, WBO super middleweight.

The Great Rivals of 'Canelo'

There are already more than 17 years of career where he has only been defeated twice (Floyd Mayweather Jr and Dmitry Bivol), but there are five fights that have been decisive for the Guadalajarense:

Vs Austin Trout in 2013

This fight was the first big test for Álvarez, since the American was undefeated. However, the Mexican right hand managed to drop him in the seventh round despite Trout being the favorite.

Vs Miguel Cotto in 2015

During this fight, he managed to get his first high-class title, defeating the Puerto Rican in an amazing battle. Likewise, this fight was considered one of the most important during his entire career as a professional boxer.

Vs Gennady Golovkin in 2018

In a daring fight, the redhead defeated his rival on different occasions. This was the first time he managed to beat him. It is considered one of the greatest rivalries of the Mexican boxer, remembering the number of opportunities they have faced in recent years.

Vs Billy Joe Saunders in 2021

In front of more than 70 thousand people, in Dallas, Texas, Saúl managed to snatch the WBO super middleweight title from Saunders. Likewise, by achieving this crucial victory, 'Canelo' entered the boxing history books thanks to this magnificent fight.

Vs John Ryder in 2023

His last fight represents the current state of his power and supremacy in the world rings, defeating the British last Saturday. 'Canelo' confirmed that he is ready for more and great achievements. With these kinds of victories, the Mexican boxer continues to show that he is currently one of the best athletes in the world.

This is how Latin America appreciates and exalts the fist of this stupendous athlete who, during his career full of victories around the planet, puts the Mexican flag on top and motivates future generations through sport.