During a recent interview, the legendary Mexican boxing trainer Nacho Beristain shared an experience he had in Ocotlan, Jalisco, which has generated great controversy
According to his account, after a boxing match, he was escorted by an armed group that took him to meet a character known as “the boss”, allegedly linked to organized crime.
An unexpected encounter in Ocotlan
Beristain explained that, at the end of the event, he was worried about not having transportation to the airport in Guadalajara. At that moment, a group of armed young men approached him and asked him to take a photo with “the boss”. Although he never confirmed his identity, the context suggests that it could be Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, alias “El Mencho”, leader of the Jalisco Cartel.
The coach described the man as calm, with a bag of popcorn in his hand, and mentioned that the encounter was brief but meaningful. The “boss” thanked him for the event and wished him to remain humble.
Criticism of transparency in boxing
Beyond the anecdote, Beristain took advantage of the interview to launch harsh criticism of the current state of Mexican boxing. He pointed out that there is a lack of transparency in the results of certain fights and that there are pressures not to question high-profile figures.
The coach was especially critical of Saul “Canelo” Alvarez, stating that his career leaves many doubts. According to Beristain, several of his fights have unbelievable outcomes, and there is an “untouchability” surrounding the Guadalajara boxer that prevents him from being openly criticized.
Rumors of links to organized crime
In the same conversation, Beristain mentioned that there are versions that indirectly link members of Canelo’s entourage to illicit activities. Although he did not offer concrete evidence, he did refer to journalistic and judicial investigations that have explored these links.
These statements have ignited the debate about the relationship between sport and organized crime, especially in regions such as Jalisco, where criminal groups with a strong presence operate.
The reaction of the public and the boxing environment
Beristain’s words have generated mixed reactions. Some boxing fans believe that the trainer is exposing uncomfortable truths, while others accuse him of unfairly attacking Canelo Alvarez. On social media, the topic has been trending, with mixed opinions about the truthfulness and impact of his statements.
Canelo’s camp has not issued any official comment on Beristain’s remarks, but a response is expected in the coming days given the magnitude of the accusations.
A call for reflection
Beyond the controversy, Nacho Beristain‘s statements invite reflection on the state of boxing in Mexico. The influence of external interests, lack of regulation and media pressure are factors that, according to the trainer, have distorted the essence of the sport.
Beristain, with more than six decades of experience, is still a respected voice and his words could open a necessary debate on the ethics, transparency and independence of professional boxing.
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