Mexican boxer Saul “Canelo” Alvarez has singled out Cristiano Ronaldo as the only footballer capable of lasting a round against him in the boxing ring.
During a promotional event tied to the World Cup, the undisputed super middleweight champion praised the Al-Nassr forward's relentless training routine and winning mentality at 41 years old.
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“Only Cristiano Ronaldo would endure a round with me in the ring,” Alvarez stated, as reported by sports network TUDN.
He briefly considered former striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic due to his martial arts background before reaffirming his choice of the Portuguese star.
“No, it's very difficult. No, I don't know.
I think Cristiano has the strength… or what's the name of that player who plays in the United States, Ibra, Ibrain, who is a bit into martial arts or something, right?
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But we stick with Cristiano,” Alvarez added.
Physical Demands of Boxing vs. Soccer
Sports physical trainers consulted by ESPN Deportes and Fox Sports noted that while soccer players have extraordinary aerobic fitness, boxing requires different impact resistance and explosive upper-body strength.
Following his comments, Alvarez and his family attended the 2026 World Cup opening match at Ciudad de Mexico Stadium, where Mexico defeated South Africa 2-0, according to an Instagram update by his wife, Fernanda Gomez.
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Alvarez is currently finalizing details for his upcoming professional bout scheduled against Christian Mbilli on September 12.
