Per numerous sources, Canelo Alvarez has withdrawn from his highly-anticipated rematch against Gennady Golovkin on May 5.
Canelo Alvarez withdraws from May 5 rematch with Gennady Golovkin due to fallout from pair of failed drug testshttps://t.co/XqSrNzpuzZ pic.twitter.com/zsE7VqkGGD
— Brian Campbell (@BCampbellCBS) April 3, 2018
The fight, which was scheduled to take place at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, had remained in serious doubt following Canelo’s two positive drug tests for the banned substance, Clenbuterol.
According to boxing writer Steve Kim, Golden Boy Promotions–who promotes Canelo–realized that their man would not be licensed by the Nevada Athletic Commission, which is why they decided to throw in the towel.
there was a realization from GBP that Canelo was not going to be licensed to fight on May 5th, so the decision to pull the plug was made #boxing
— Strict Liability Kim (@steveucnlive) April 3, 2018
The overall sentiment from fans online is one of dejection, frustration and downright anger–mostly directed at Canelo whose superstar status and credibility will undoubtedly suffer in the public eye.
During today’s press conference, which was limited to select media members, Canelo defended his character and made his case to fans.
Canelo: "I have always been a fighter with integrity. I am proud of the career in which I have had, a career in which I have never done anything illegal to disrespect the sport."
— Brian Campbell (@BCampbellCBS) April 3, 2018
Unfortunately, those are hollow words from a man who just single handedly killed one of, if not the biggest fights of the year.
As for Golovkin, he is now left without a dance partner on May 5. WBO Super Middleweight champion, Gilberto Ramirez, has stated that he is ready, willing and able to face Golovkin.
Another name that is being thrown around as a possible opponent is Spike O’Sullivan. Nobody in there right mind wants to see that fight.
Header photo by Hogan Photos
