Canelo Alvarez targeted again by doping allegations from Jermall Charlo

Just weeks after his dominant performance against William Scull in Saudi Arabia, Saul “Canelo” Alvarez finds his name resurfacing in the headlines — this time outside the ring. The celebration of his victory has been disrupted by renewed speculation surrounding a substance that once halted his career momentum: clenbuterol.

The origin of the latest controversy is Jermall Charlo, who during a press event promoting his upcoming return, directly accused Canelo of continuing to use the banned performance-enhancing drug. Charlo’s statements have reignited a long-standing issue within the sport and placed new scrutiny on Canelo’s preparation and environment.

The accusation comes amid a sensitive moment for Mexican boxing, as another fighter from Eddy Reynoso’s team, Jaime Munguia, recently tested positive for a banned substance. This new case has led to further questioning of protocols within the training group that Álvarez leads.

Charlo’s remarks against Canelo’s legacy

During his public appearance, Charlo made strong claims regarding Canelo’s past suspension and implied that similar practices might still be occurring. In his statement, he remarked, “Do you think Canelo stopped using clenbuterol in 2018? Do you really think it was a simple mistake?” He also criticized what he described as advanced doping strategies that could avoid standard testing procedures.

Saul “Canelo” Alvarez and William Scull (L-R) on the Fatal Fury City of Wolves card at ANB Arena on May 03, 2025.  (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)

Charlo dismissed the defense often cited in clenbuterol-related cases — food contamination — by stating, “I’ve been to Mexico. I’ve eaten meat. I’ve never tested positive.” His words have brought renewed attention to the previous controversies surrounding Canelo and reignited public debate about doping controls in boxing.

see also

Boxing legend who beat Evander Holyfield predicts winner of Canelo Alvarez vs Terence Crawford

No response from Canelo or his camp

As of now, Canelo hasn’t issued any response to Charlo’s statements. The fighter remains focused on his training and has made no public comment addressing the renewed accusations.

With no official statement from Canelo or his team, the situation remains unresolved. However, the timing of the remarks and the recent positive test involving a fighter from his camp have created a scenario where questions around doping oversight are again part of the sport’s broader conversation.