Canelo Álvarez: The Boxing Legend Who Sacrificed School for Glory

Guadalajara, Mexico — Saúl ‘Canelo’ Álvarez, a celebrated figure in boxing, has a story that highlights the sacrifices made for success. Born into a family of boxers, Canelo began his boxing journey at a very young age, prioritizing his career over a traditional education. At just 15 years old, he turned professional, leaving behind typical teenage worries like homework and school crushes.

Canelo recalls his early boxing experiences vividly, including a memorable fight where he knocked out an opponent twice his age. ‘He was like 30 or 35 years old and I was 14. I was born for this,’ he stated in an interview. His choice to pursue boxing full-time was not met with total parental support; his parents had hoped he would focus on his academics.

Growing up, Canelo completed only his basic education, commonly including preschool and elementary school in Mexico. Reports indicate he never finished secondary education, as he opted to dedicate himself fully to boxing, driven by his ambition to become the best. ‘I don’t regret what I did,’ Canelo shared, emphasizing that he wants his children to value education more than he did at their age.

A notable part of Canelo’s journey came when he began training at the age of 13 and made his professional debut in October 2005. At 21, he won his first title, defeating Matthew Hatton. Canelo’s championship accolades continue to grow, currently holding titles from multiple boxing organizations.

Despite his own educational sacrifices, Canelo is not dismissive of academic value. He has contributed to educational initiatives, like donations to his old school in Juanacatlán, Jalisco, highlighting his commitment to uplifting future generations. Canelo Álvarez’s journey mirrors that of many elite athletes who choose to sacrifice a conventional education for their passion, yet he showcases the importance of giving back to the community.

As Canelo prepares for his upcoming fight on May 3, 2025, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, the question of whether his choice to abandon a traditional education was right continues to linger. Nonetheless, he serves as an inspiration for those aspiring to succeed in boxing and beyond.