Saul “Canelo” Alvarez is one of the most celebrated boxers of his generation, known for his exceptional skill, power, and tactical intelligence in the ring. However, like many high-profile athletes, his career has not been without controversy. Some critics and fans have pointed to certain fights where they believe Canelo used ‘tricks’ or tactics to deceive viewers and secure victories. Here are a few of those bouts:
1. Canelo vs. Gennady Golovkin I (2017)
Controversy: The first fight between Canelo Alvarez and Gennady Golovkin ended in a highly controversial split draw. Many fans and analysts believed that Golovkin had done enough to win the fight, but the judges’ scorecards did not reflect that.
Alleged ‘Tricks’: Critics argued that Canelo’s defensive tactics and counter-punching, while effective, were not enough to offset Golovkin’s aggression and pressure. The controversy mainly stemmed from judge Adalaide Byrd’s scorecard, which heavily favored Canelo, leading to accusations of biased judging.
2. Canelo vs. Erislandy Lara (2014)
Controversy: Canelo’s split-decision victory over Erislandy Lara was another contentious bout. Lara’s elusive style and significant movement frustrated Canelo, making it a difficult fight to score.
Alleged ‘Tricks’: Detractors claimed that Canelo’s ability to secure close rounds despite Lara’s apparent control of the fight was due to favoritism from the judges. Lara’s clean, effective punching and superior footwork seemed to outclass Canelo, yet the decision went in Canelo’s favor.
3.Canelo vs. Austin Trout (2013)
Controversy: Canelo’s unanimous decision victory over Austin Trout raised eyebrows, particularly due to an open scoring system used in the bout, where scores were revealed to the fighters after rounds four and eight.
Alleged ‘Tricks’: Critics suggested that the knowledge of being ahead on the scorecards allowed Canelo to fight more conservatively, maintaining his lead without taking unnecessary risks. Additionally, some felt the knockdown in the seventh round unfairly influenced the judges’ scoring, overshadowing Trout’s consistent performance.
4. Canelo vs. Floyd Mayweather Jr. (2013)
Controversy: While Canelo clearly lost to Floyd Mayweather Jr., the scorecards still caused controversy. Judge C.J. Ross scored the fight a draw, which was widely criticized given Mayweather’s dominance.
Alleged ‘Tricks’: This incident led to discussions about potential favoritism or bias in scoring high-profile fights involving Canelo, raising concerns about the integrity of judging in his bouts.
5. Canelo vs. Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. (2017)
Controversy: Canelo’s unanimous decision victory over Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. was a one-sided affair, but the fight’s promotion and outcome led to accusations of deception.
Alleged ‘Tricks’: Critics argued that the bout was more about spectacle than competition, with Chavez Jr. appearing unprepared and uncompetitive. The fight’s promotion heavily focused on the rivalry and hype, leading some to believe it was a cash grab rather than a genuine sporting contest.
Canelo Alvarez’s career is marked by incredible achievements and undeniable skill, but like many top athletes, he has faced his share of controversy. Allegations of ‘tricks’ or deceptive tactics often center around controversial judging decisions and the promotion of certain fights. While these claims add a layer of intrigue to his legacy, they also highlight the complex nature of professional boxing, where perception and reality can sometimes blur.
