Boxing fans everywhere sit down when reading this.
The highly anticipated rematch between Canelo Alvarez and Gennady Golovkin is officially canceled. Yes, that is right, the most prominent boxing match of the entire year will no longer take place. The reason for the cancellation is Canelo’s failed drug test for the banned steroid clenbuterol. The failed test occurred in February. Canelo has stated the failed test was because of tainted meat he had eaten in Mexico.
Now, some might claim this to be him making excuses, but this type of tainted meat is very prevalent in Mexico. Many Mexican fighters have had this same issue in the past with meat they have eaten from their home country. Somewhere I’m sure Trump’s Mexican senses have tingled, and we will soon see a tweet condemning all meat south of the border.
Canelo spoke about how disappointing this has been. Via USA Today
“I am sad and feel powerless that this fight cannot happen now,” Alvarez told reporters. “I have nothing to hide. I want to be transparent in this process. I will do whatever I need to do to demonstrate I have never (deliberately) taken this substance.
“I have always operated as a clean fighter. I have always taken clean substances. I respect the sport unconditionally and would never do anything to tarnish something I have worked so hard for and given so many sacrifices for.
“It saddens me that people are accusing me of doing something improper. From here on out, I will take increased precautions to ensure this will never happen again. I am ready for what comes in the future.”
The first fight between Canelo and GGG ended in a very controversial split draw decision. Both fighters claimed victory, but it left a gut-wrenching feeling in most fans stomachs. The rematch previously set for May 5th on Cinco de Mayo. Canelo has since come out and expressed his interest in fighting at some point this year possibly in August or September.
For the sake of boxing, I hope Canelo is able to rebound from this.