In a candid interview with Mexican media, the renowned boxing trainer Ignacio Beristain expressed his strong opinions about one of Mexico's most celebrated boxers, Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez. Beristain, a respected figure in both national and international boxing circles, discussed the controversial aspects of Alvarez's career. While many consider Alvarez among the best pound-for-pound fighters today, Beristain is not alone in questioning his achievements and fight selections. The trainer highlighted issues surrounding the credibility of certain matches and the impact this has on the sport as a whole.

Beristain Criticizes Alvarez's Career Choices and Fight Selections

In the heart of Mexico's bustling boxing scene, Ignacio Beristain, affectionately known as "Nacho" to friends and protégés, shared his thoughts during an interview with Reporte Indigo. The conversation centered around the career of Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez, who is set to face Cuban boxer William Scull in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, next May. Beristain, who has spent decades shaping the careers of numerous champions, made it clear that he finds Alvarez's recent fight choices deeply troubling.

He emphasized that the quality and integrity of boxing matches have been compromised by what he perceives as orchestrated encounters. Beristain pointed out the exorbitant prices for ringside tickets at world championship bouts, which can range from $15,000 to $20,000. He lamented that such high-profile events often feature predetermined outcomes, leading him to question the authenticity of the sport. His frustration was palpable when he stated that these situations make him feel physically ill.

Beristain's criticism extends beyond just the fights themselves. He expressed bewilderment at why only now are some commentators and fans recognizing the issues within Alvarez's career, despite these practices having allegedly been ongoing for years. This sentiment has fueled his outspoken stance, making him a vocal critic of what he views as a decline in boxing's integrity.

From a journalist's perspective, Beristain's comments shed light on the broader challenges facing professional boxing. His remarks serve as a call to action for the sport to address concerns about match-making and ensure that future contests maintain the highest standards of fairness and competition. Ultimately, Beristain's candid reflections underscore the importance of preserving the honor and tradition of boxing for future generations.