Canelo Alvarez has put an expiration date on his career.
The Mexican star told Box Azteca that he expects to fight until he’s “36 years old … 37 years old at the max.” Alvarez turns 30 on July 18, meaning he has a dozen or more bouts remaining if he fights twice a year.
Alvarez (53-1-2, 36 KOs) has fought 56 times. A dozen more fight would bring his total to 68, which is a big number in this era. He said the key to his durability and success is commitment.
“I always have discipline, work ethic, and dedication,” he said. “The only thing that has changed are my successes, I train every day as if I was a rookie.”
He went on: “Boxing is my life. My body asks me to fight. I keep training because I love boxing, I train whether I have a fight or not … 36 years old … for me that’s a good time to retire, 37 years old at the max.”
And when it’s time to hang up his gloves?
“I’ll dedicate myself to my business and playing golf every day,” he said.
At the moment, Alvarez is waiting out the coronavirus pandemic like everyone else. He said he doesn’t know who he’ll face in his next fight but gave a warning to prospective opponents: Don’t demand too much money.
“Instead of seeking glory, they are looking for money,” he said. “I’m not saying it’s wrong, but don’t exaggerate your worth.”