Canelo Alvarez Criticized For Blackballing A Reporter

Canelo Alvarez has received mass backlash for blackballing a member of the boxing media.

According to reports, Ricardo Celis was not allowed press credentials for Canelo’s fight with Edgar Berlanga. Alvarez won a unanimous decision win in a dominant performance after dropping Berlanga in the third round. Before the fight, Canelo received backlash for not facing a bigger name. Canelo was linked with the David Benavidez fight, only to demand $200 million for it. He was also linked with Terence Crawford, but the Mexican’s mixed comments on the fight have not increased the momentum for it.

He dismissed it after claiming he would get no credit for beating a much smaller fighter. However, he reversed his comments by saying it could happen. Celis has been critical of Canelo’s reluctance to face the big names. He was reportedly prevented from covering the Jaime Munguia fight. Now, the second instance has drawn more backlash. The National Association of Hispanic Journalists Sports Task Force has responded and demanded an answer from Canelo’s team. 

Reporter Reacts

“Veteran award-winning boxing broadcaster Ricardo Celis, an NAHJ member, said DAZN informed him he was removed from the team calling Álvarez’s fight on Saturday, September 14, at the boxer’s request. It is the second time Celis was pulled from his customary position within the DAZN broadcast lineup this year, previously learning he was removed from the team covering Álvarez’s May 4, 2024, bout at the boxer’s request. Celis requested an explanation from Álvarez’s team and an opportunity to meet to discuss the issue.”

These comments run contrary to Canelo’s mindset. He has repeatedly stated that he earned himself the right to pick whoever he fights based on his resume. Canelo has fought Floyd Mayweather, Dmitry Bivol and GGG. The latter was arguably the most dangerous fighter of Canelo’s era. He faced him three times and secured two wins and a draw. The first fight, which was declared a draw, was arguably a win for GGG, with many feeling he had been robbed.

Canelo’s Defiance

But that fight put an end to claims that Canelo was ducking. While those accusations have resurfaced with David Benavidez, Canelo earned a reported $35 million from the Berlanga fight. The Mexican can continue to earn big paydays by taking less riskier fights, making it much more lucrative for him in the long run. While journalists like Celis will continue to be vocal, team Canelo remains steadfast even with the criticism.  

“Celis and other Latino journalists play important roles covering combat sports, asking questions on behalf of fans and holding athletes and promoters accountable for observing rules that help create fair fights. Journalists covering Álvarez should be free to raise professional questions without fear their credentials will be removed, just as journalists covering the NFL, NBA, MLB, and other professional sports do on a daily basis. At a minimum, Celis deserves an explanation for why he was blocked from the broadcast lineup and a chance to make his case for the opportunity to continue doing his job.”

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