Alvarez showed up at the recent news conference strong and determined. “I’m going to keep going,” he said, silencing any talk about retirement.
As a teen, he would spend hours on Guadalajara’s buses selling ice cream to support his family. His early days in boxing weren’t much better, earning just a few dollars from ticket sales.
Now, in Las Vegas, Alvarez is making headlines with an impressive reported purse of $150 million (£111 million). It’s hard to believe that a boy who sold ice cream now commands such wealth.
However, fame comes with its challenges. Critics often question the fairness of some of his fights, pointing to questionable scorecards against opponents like Erislandy Lara and Gennady Golovkin—matches many thought he lost.
Alvarez also faces scrutiny over a six-month ban he received in 2018 after failing drug tests. He claims the positive results were due to contaminated meat.
Many wonder if Alvarez is on the decline. His last fight against William Scull wasn’t his best, and he admits he’s feeling the pressure. “Sometimes you want to give your best, but your body doesn’t cooperate. That’s frustrating,” he shared.
When asked about his thoughts on fellow fighter Bud Crawford, Alvarez didn’t hold back. “Everything about him worries me. He has it all.”
Amidst this uncertainty, it’s important to recognize Alvarez’s resilience. Athletes often face ups and downs, making their journeys all the more compelling. In today’s world, where social media highlights every moment, fan reactions are mixed. Some supporters cheer him on, while critics express doubt about his next moves.
In a recent survey, a significant 65% of boxing fans said they believe Alvarez still has the skills to compete at high levels, despite his recent struggles. This shows that, for many, his legacy remains strong.
As we follow Alvarez, his story reminds us of the challenges athletes face—from stepping into the ring to dealing with external pressures. Whether he triumphs or faces more hurdles, Alvarez will continue to be a captivating figure in the boxing world. For more details about Alvarez’s career, read more here.
