The world of boxing was once again set ablaze when WBC middleweight champion Jermall Charlo publicly accused Canelo Alvarez of still using performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs). In an interview that quickly went viral across combat sports communities, Charlo delivered a bold and inflammatory statement: “Do you think he’s stopped? Come on.”

This accusation has revived one of the sport’s most controversial and lingering discussions—Canelo Alvarez’s past failed drug test and whether his legacy is truly clean.

A History of Controversy

Canelo Alvarez, regarded as one of the greatest boxers of his generation, tested positive for the banned substance clenbuterol in 2018. While his team claimed the result was due to contaminated Mexican beef, the incident led to a six-month suspension and cast a long shadow over his otherwise stellar career.

Since then, Canelo has tested clean in all subsequent fights. However, the controversy never fully died down—especially among fellow fighters who remain skeptical of the explanation.

Jermall Charlo, never one to bite his tongue, reignited the issue this week with blunt accusations that question the integrity of Canelo’s current success.

Charlo’s Blistering Remarks

During an appearance on a boxing podcast, Charlo was asked if he believed Canelo had stopped using PEDs. His response was as direct as it was explosive:

“Do you honestly think he’s clean now? Do you think he just stopped? People don’t just stop when they’ve had that kind of edge. You can see how he’s built. You can see the stamina, the power. Something doesn’t add up.”

Charlo continued by claiming that boxing’s testing protocols could be “manipulated” and that money and power in the sport protect certain fighters.

“The big names, the cash cows—they don’t get tested like the rest of us. Or if they do, they get advanced notice. This sport isn’t fair, and fans need to open their eyes.”

Canelo’s Camp Responds

Unsurprisingly, the backlash from Team Canelo was swift. Canelo’s trainer and long-time associate Eddy Reynoso fired back, calling Charlo’s comments “baseless, disrespectful, and desperate.”

“Canelo has been tested hundreds of times since 2018 and has passed every single one. Charlo is trying to build hype because he knows the only way to make headlines is to mention Canelo’s name.”

Canelo himself hasn’t yet made a full public statement, but sources close to the Mexican superstar suggest he is “furious” and considering legal action if the accusations continue without proof.

A Fight Brewing or Just Trash Talk?

Many fans and analysts believe Charlo’s outburst is calculated—a deliberate move to goad Canelo into finally agreeing to a fight. The two fighters have been circling each other for years, with fans begging for the match-up. However, negotiations have repeatedly broken down due to disagreements over weight, purse splits, and promotional politics.

By throwing such a bombshell accusation into the mix, Charlo may be aiming to force Canelo’s hand—or at least create enough public pressure to push the fight into reality.

Boxing promoter Lou DiBella commented on the drama:

“This is classic fight game psychology. You insult a man’s legacy, you question his honor, and you force him to respond. Whether Charlo truly believes it or not, it’s a high-stakes strategy.”

Boxing Community Reacts

The boxing world remains sharply divided. Some fans support Charlo, pointing to the history of doping in the sport and calling for more transparency. Others accuse Charlo of deflection and cowardice, suggesting he’s using accusations to avoid actually stepping in the ring with Canelo.

Twitter, Reddit, and boxing forums exploded with debate:

• “Charlo has a point. Too many elite fighters have questionable records with PEDs.”

• “Sounds like someone who’s scared to fight Canelo and is trying to smear him instead.”

• “If you’ve got proof, show it. If not, shut up and sign the contract.”

What Happens Next?

Whether the accusations have merit or are simply a ploy to stir controversy, one thing is certain: Jermall Charlo has put himself in the headlines—and Canelo Alvarez squarely in the spotlight.

The demand for a Canelo vs. Charlo showdown has now reached a boiling point. Fans want answers, and the only way both men can silence the noise is inside the ring.

Until then, the war of words continues—and the line between truth and trash talk gets blurrier by the day.