Many are asking what Canelo Álvarez has left to achieve in the boxing world. His career has been nothing short of extraordinary, elevating Mexico to the pinnacle of the sport. Yet questions remain, as next year is expected to mark the final chapter of Canelo’s career at the top level. Some wonder whether it’s necessary for him to step back into the ring again, especially after his tough defeat against Terence Crawford.
Canelo Álvarez’s last fight was a grueling one, in which he was thoroughly dominated by the power of the American boxer, who claimed the world championship in front of thousands at Allegiant Stadium. The decisive loss has sparked widespread speculation about Álvarez’s future in the ring and whether it might finally be time for him to retire for good.
Canelo Álvarez’s bout against Terence Crawford should mark the end of his boxing career
No one can stay forever young, not even Canelo Álvarez, who at 35 seems just a step below the superstar he once was. While age is often just a number, it’s clear that his abilities have begun to wane compared to the peak performances that once defined his brilliant boxing career.
For that reason is that former multiple world championships in two weight classes, including being the reigning WBA, IBF, WBO, and The Ring light heavyweight champion Andre Ward has address his opinion over the Mexican star.
It’s worth noting that Andre Ward retired in 2017 at age 33 with an impressive 32-0 record, making him an ideal voice on the subject of retirement. Drawing from his own experience, Ward shared his perspective during a recent episode of the All The Smoke Fight podcast.
“I would like to see Canelo retire, too,” Ward began. He added that, given Canelo’s personality, it would be difficult to achieve and due to his compromises: “I don’t think he will, though. He’s got a multi-fight deal with Turki Alalshikh, that’s a lot of money on the table. And he’s a proud, proud champion. So I can understand him not wanting to end on that note.”
Ward highlights age as a major factor in Canelo’s future retirement decision
Andre Ward also pointed out that Canelo Álvarez’s age is a significant hurdle in his pursuit to continue fighting at the highest level. “But you can see Canelo getting older,” Ward remarked, highlighting the natural challenges the Mexican star now faces in the ring.
“The man has been fighting as a professional since he was 15 years old. That’s a long time to be taking shots with 8-ounce and 10-ounce gloves,” Ward analyzed. He added, “I don’t know how much longer he should keep fighting, and it’s not because he can’t fight anymore. He’s still one of the best fighters in the world,” praising Canelo’s enduring skill and talent.
In conclusion, the former world champion added, “I think that given the way that he fought, and given the way that he bowed out, I think that you just got to leave it right there,” emphasizing that Canelo Álvarez doesn’t need to prove anything to anyone.
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