Canelo Alvarez’s Humility Shines Through as He Names Top 3 Mexican Boxers, Excluding Himself, in Unprecedented Move
In a rare display of humility and reverence for boxing’s rich history, Canelo Alvarez, the undisputed champion of the super middleweight division, surprised fans and critics alike by omitting himself from his list of top three favorite Mexican boxers. Amidst preparations for his upcoming all-Mexican showdown against Jaime Munguia, Canelo’s unexpected choices shed light on the legends who have shaped the sport in his homeland.
During a press conference leading up to his fourth title defense, Canelo Alvarez was asked to name his top three Mexican fighters of all time. Without hesitation, he honored the iconic Julio Cesar Chavez, Gilberto Roman, and Efren ‘El Alacran’ Torres with his selections, showcasing his deep respect for the pioneers of Mexican boxing.
Canelo Alvarez, “Say, who are your favorites? Who are your top three Mexican fighters ever?”
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“Julio Cesar Chavez, Gilberto Roman,”added, “Alacran Torres.” But soon he saw a name thrown at him: “Canelo Alvarez?” Mexican icon replied, “Ah, Canelo Alvarez is different.”
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While Julio Cesar Chavez’s name is synonymous with boxing greatness, the inclusion of Gilberto Roman and Efren Torres may have surprised casual fans. Roman, a two-time WBC super flyweight champion, and Torres, a former WBC and Ring flyweight title holder, may not boast the same level of recognition as Chavez, but their contributions to the sport are equally significant in Canelo’s eyes.
Julio Cesar Chavez, hailed as ‘El César del Boxeo’ (The Caesar of Boxing), amassed an astonishing record of 107 wins against only six losses throughout his illustrious career. His dominance in the ring earned him multiple accolades, including ‘Fighter of the Year’ awards and recognition as Ring magazine’s best pound-for-pound boxer.
Gilberto Roman, despite a tragically short career, left an indelible mark on the sport with his masterful defensive techniques and precision in the ring. Similarly, Efren Torres’s achievements, including capturing the WBC and Ring flyweight titles, cemented his legacy as one of Mexico’s boxing greats.
By excluding himself from the list, Canelo Alvarez demonstrated a humility rarely seen in athletes of his caliber. Despite his status as one of the sport’s most dominant figures, Canelo chose to pay homage to those who paved the way for his success, underscoring his deep appreciation for the traditions of Mexican boxing.
As Canelo prepares to step into the ring against Jaime Munguia, his reverence for the sport’s history serves as a reminder of the values that define true champions—humility, respect, and a relentless dedication to excellence. In honoring the legends of Mexican boxing, Canelo Alvarez not only pays tribute to his predecessors but also reaffirms his commitment to upholding their legacy for generations to come.
