Canelo Álvarez net worth may grab headlines, but fans often wonder: how old is Canelo Álvarez? As of September 2025, he is 35 years old. Born on July 18, 1990, in Guadalajara, Mexico, Canelo has grown into one of boxing’s most celebrated champions, blending skill, strategy, and charisma inside and outside the ring.
Table of Contents
EARLY LIFE AND BOXING BEGINNINGS
Santos Saúl “Canelo” Álvarez Barragán was born on July 18, 1990, in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, the youngest of eight siblings. His family later moved to the town of Juanacatlán, where he grew up on a farm. Life in rural Mexico gave Álvarez a strong work ethic early on, but it was boxing that would quickly become his true calling.
Álvarez was introduced to the sport by his older brother Rigoberto Álvarez, who was also a professional boxer. Inspired by his brother’s journey, Canelo began training at a young age under the guidance of veteran coach José “Chepo” Reynoso and later alongside Eddy Reynoso, who continues to train him to this day. He showed remarkable natural talent and discipline, standing out in local amateur competitions across Jalisco.
At just 13 years old, Álvarez entered the amateur boxing scene. His skill was evident from the start, and he quickly gained recognition for his powerful punches, sharp instincts, and fiery red hair—earning him the nickname “Canelo,” meaning cinnamon in Spanish. After only a short amateur career, in which he compiled an impressive record, he made the bold decision to turn professional.
In 2005, at the age of 15, Álvarez made his professional debut against Abraham Gonzalez, scoring a fourth-round technical knockout. Unlike many boxers who ease into the sport with lighter opposition, Álvarez fought often and fearlessly, sometimes against older and more experienced opponents. His activity level was remarkable, fighting multiple times per year and building a reputation as one of Mexico’s most promising young fighters.
By the time he was 20 years old, Álvarez had already captured the World Boxing Council (WBC) light middleweight title, becoming the youngest boxer to claim the belt in that division’s history. His early start not only gave him unmatched experience against a variety of styles but also the confidence and momentum that would launch him into international stardom.
CAREER HIGHLIGHTS AND ACHIEVEMENTS
By the age of 35, Canelo Álvarez has established himself as one of the most accomplished and influential fighters in modern boxing history. His career reflects not only longevity and consistency but also a willingness to take risks by challenging champions across multiple weight divisions.
Looking Ahead: Next, Álvarez is scheduled to face Terence “Bud” Crawford in September 2025—a clash that has already been billed as one of the most anticipated fights in recent memory. With Crawford moving up in weight to challenge him, the bout could become a defining moment in Canelo’s legacy. A victory would not only add to his résumé but also strengthen his case as one of the greatest pound-for-pound fighters of all time.
Professional Record: Álvarez’s career record stands at 63 wins, 2 losses, and 2 draws, with 39 victories coming by knockout. His mix of power, precision, and defensive skill has made him a complete fighter who adapts seamlessly to different opponents and styles.
World Championships: Over the course of his career, Canelo has claimed world titles in four different weight classes—from light middleweight (154 lbs) to light heavyweight (175 lbs). This versatility places him among the rare fighters capable of conquering divisions both below and above their natural weight.
Historic Undisputed Champion: One of Álvarez’s greatest accomplishments came in November 2021, when he defeated Caleb Plant to become the first undisputed super middleweight champion in boxing history. Holding the WBC, WBA, WBO, and IBF belts simultaneously, he etched his name into the sport’s record books as the dominant force at 168 pounds.
Signature Victories: Throughout his career, Álvarez has shared the ring with some of the sport’s biggest names, defeating elite fighters such as Shane Mosley, Miguel Cotto, Gennady Golovkin, Sergey Kovalev, Daniel Jacobs, and Caleb Plant. His rivalry with Gennady “GGG” Golovkin in particular became a defining trilogy of the modern boxing era, with Canelo winning two of the three bouts.
Recent Triumphs: In May 2025, Álvarez added another milestone by capturing the IBF super middleweight title after a decisive victory over William Scull, reinforcing his dominance at 168 pounds and proving that his reign at the top continues even after two decades in the sport.
BUSINESS VENTURES AND FINANCIAL SUCCESS
Canelo Álvarez has proven that his talents extend far beyond the boxing ring. While his dominance in the sport has made him a global superstar, his ability to translate that fame into a diverse portfolio of business ventures has positioned him as one of the wealthiest and most financially savvy athletes in the world.
- Tequila and Beverage Industry: Staying true to his Mexican roots, Álvarez launched a tequila-based ready-to-drink brand, tapping into the booming global demand for premium spirits. His product line has found success not only in Mexico but also in the U.S. and international markets, strengthening his image as both a cultural icon and an entrepreneur.
- Hospitality and Gaming: Canelo has invested heavily in hospitality, restaurants, and gaming establishments, expanding his influence into sectors that thrive on entertainment and luxury experiences. These ventures reflect his strategy of diversifying into industries that align with his global fan base.
- Convenience Stores and Retail: Recognizing the importance of scalable businesses, Álvarez also owns a chain of convenience stores across Mexico, providing everyday essentials to local communities while generating steady revenue streams. His presence in retail highlights his vision of creating businesses that extend beyond elite circles and reach everyday consumers.
- Real Estate and Energy Investments: Beyond consumer-facing ventures, Álvarez has put his wealth to work in real estate and energy sector stakes, ensuring long-term financial security. These strategic investments diversify his portfolio and protect his fortune against the volatility of sports-related earnings.
Thanks to these ventures, Álvarez has amassed a fortune that places him among the highest-paid athletes globally, consistently appearing on Forbes’ lists of top-earning sports stars. His story illustrates a blueprint for athletes transitioning from short-term sports income to sustainable financial independence. Canelo’s entrepreneurial mindset ensures that his legacy will endure not only in boxing history but also in the world of business and wealth creation.
PERSONAL LIFE
Canelo Álvarez is also a dedicated father to four children:
- Emily Cinnamon (2007) – with ex-girlfriend Karen Beltrán
- María Fernanda (2017) – with wife Fernanda Gómez
- Saúl Adiel (2019) – with Nelda Sepulveda
- Eva Victoria (2025) – most recent addition
Canelo frequently emphasizes the importance of family and supports his children in pursuing their passions.
CONCLUSION
At 35 years old, Canelo Álvarez remains a dominant force in boxing and a shrewd businessman. His age reflects both experience and peak performance, positioning him for continued success inside the ring and in his entrepreneurial pursuits. Fans worldwide are eager to watch him take on Terence Crawford and see how this seasoned champion continues to shape his legacy.
