Canelo vs GGG 2 Cancelled
Los Angeles (03 April, 2018)- In front of selected media Canelo Alvarez announced the cancellation of his mega-rematch against Gennady Golovkin today through Golden Boy CEO Eric Gomez. “Unfortunately because of the positive test we are going to have to cancel the fight on May 5th” said Gomez during the hour long press conference at Golden Boy headquarters in downtown Los Angeles.
Not sticking to the script, Alvarez highlighted bullet points from a prepared statement then expanded on his feelings toward the immense scrutiny of his positive test result for the banned substance clenbuterol. “It saddens me that people are accusing me of doing something improper. From here on out, I will take increased precautions to ensure this will never happen again. I am ready for whatever comes in the future.”
Alvarez is facing a minimum suspension of six months by the Nevada State Athletic Commission but could be suspended for up to two years.
Addressing the media today was a clear effort to declare his position of taking clenbuterol unintentionally through tainted meat. Bringing a doctor from Mexico, Golden Boy highlighted the history of common meat contamination cases of positive clenbuterol tests arguing that clenbuterol contamination is a public health risk in Mexico. A printed history of high profile positive clenbuterol tests in major sports was handed to the thirty or so members of the media in attendance.
Asked if anyone at Golden Boy Promotions warned Alvarez of possible meat contamination while training in Mexico CEO Eric Gomez said “Unfortunately we did not, going forward all of our fighters will be made aware of the risks of meat in Mexico.”
The cancellation of the fight prompted Gennady Golovkin to post immediately on social media a photo of himself with a Las Vegas back drop “I will be defending my titles on Cinco de Mayo in Las Vegas! Official announcement coming soon.
I will be defending my titles on Cinco de Mayo in Las Vegas!
Official announcement coming soon! pic.twitter.com/ewsXojzBdv— Gennady Golovkin (@GGGBoxing) April 3, 2018
Golovkin promoter Tom Loeffler has repeatedly said that Golovkin would fight on May 5th regardless if Alvarez was suspended and looks to keep that promise.
The massive amount of money spent on promotion, sponsorships, hotels, flights, etc. is a critical loss for Golden Boy. Tom Loeffler hasn’t indicated a desire to pursue legal action against the sports biggest star.
Reaction was mixed on Social media with the majority of Golovkin fans expressing disdain for Alvarez and a desire to still travel to Las Vegas on Cinco de Mayo.
Watch the full press conference here
