SIX years ago, Boxing News featured a cover image of Saul “Canelo” Alvarez without a shirt and the coverline “Lawless”, hinting at an investigation of the Mexican boxer’s two failed performance-enhancing drug tests before his planned fight against Gennady Golovkin on May 5, 2018.
Now, Alvarez is once again on the cover of Boxing News, this time celebrating his career with the coverline “Far From Finished.”
While six years might seem like a long time, Alvarez’s six-month ban for clenbuterol in 2018 was just a short break between fights for him. WBA president Gilberto Mendoza defended Alvarez, citing his previous negative drug tests and questioning the decision to stop the Alvarez vs. Golovkin fight.
Despite the controversy, Alvarez returned to the ring and continued his successful career, eventually facing Golovkin again.
Canelo Alvarez (Sarah Stier/Getty Images)
Years later, Alvarez continues to succeed in the ring, facing new challenges and overcoming past controversies.
Recently, Ryan Garcia tested positive for performance-enhancing drugs, sparking controversy and questions about drug testing in boxing. Despite denials and explanations, Garcia’s positive tests have raised concerns about the integrity of the sport.
Ryan Garcia (Roy Rochlin/Getty Images for Empire State Realty Trust)
The fallout from Garcia’s positive tests highlights the importance of drug testing in boxing and the need for transparency and accountability in the sport.