Canelo Alvarez has dropped a bombshell following his recent loss to Terence Crawford, revealing shocking details about his performance on Joe Rogan’s podcast. In a candid admission, Alvarez confessed that he deliberately held back during the fight, stating he fought at “half pace” and allowed Crawford to shine, a revelation that has sent shockwaves through the boxing community.
Alvarez, who was reportedly paid $100 million for the bout, hinted that business decisions influenced his lackluster performance. Critics and fans alike had already noted something was off during the fight; Canelo’s jab was nearly non-existent, and he failed to apply the usual pressure that has defined his career. Instead, he stood flat-footed, throwing single shots and appearing devoid of urgency as the rounds slipped away. The punch statistics reflected this alarming trend, marking some of the lowest output of his career.
Oscar De La Hoya, a former promoter for Alvarez, echoed the sentiments of many, questioning whether Canelo had truly trained for the fight or if he was paid to lose. Veteran fighter Gabe Rosado described Canelo’s performance as reminiscent of someone well past their prime, highlighting the absence of his signature combinations and relentless pressure.
Alvarez’s comments have reignited debates about his future in the ring. While some believe he still possesses the s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁s to compete at the highest level, others argue that his body is breaking down after years of intense competition. Clarissa Shields, a champion in her own right, suggested that Canelo’s body is signaling it’s time to retire, a sentiment shared by many in the boxing community.
The implications of Alvarez’s admission are profound. With Crawford’s victory, he has positioned himself as a major player in the sport, opening doors for lucrative matchups. However, the question remains: will Alvarez seek redemption in a rematch with Crawford, or will he opt for a less risky opponent to extend his career? The boxing world is on edge, eagerly awaiting his next move.
As speculation mounts, the future of both fighters hangs in the balance. Will Alvarez rise to the challenge, or has the allure of big paydays clouded his competitive spirit? The answers could reshape the landscape of boxing in the coming months. Fans are left to ponder the fate of two of the sport’s biggest stars as they navigate the treacherous waters of fame, fortune, and the unforgiving nature of the ring.