LAS VEGAS – In the aftermath of Saul "Canelo" Alvarez’s unanimous decision loss to Terence Crawford, boxing legend and former promoter Oscar De La Hoya has publicly suggested that Alvarez’s continued success at the elite level hinges on a crucial change: replacing long-time trainer Eddy Reynoso.

The defeat against Crawford exposed vulnerabilities in Alvarez’s game, particularly his inability to adapt to Crawford’s superior speed, footwork, and overall ring generalship. The performance ignited debate among boxing analysts and fans regarding the effectiveness of Alvarez’s corner and Reynoso’s in-fight adjustments, or lack thereof.

Alvarez, 35, has been under Reynoso’s tutelage since turning professional at the age of 15. Their partnership has yielded considerable success, including world titles in multiple weight divisions and two reigns as the undisputed super middleweight champion, an accomplishment Crawford mirrored with his victory over Errol Spence Jr. However, the recent loss has prompted questions about whether the long-standing relationship has become stagnant and if fresh perspectives are needed to reinvigorate Alvarez’s career.

De La Hoya, who promoted Alvarez for several years under his Golden Boy Promotions banner before a highly publicized split, believes a change in trainer could prolong Alvarez’s ability to compete against the best in the sport.

"The only thing that I can tell him or give him advice is ‘get a new trainer,’" De La Hoya stated in a recent media interview. "I can’t advise him on retiring or staying in boxing; that’s a very personal decision. But I can say, get a new trainer, you’ll do better, a new trainer will teach you different tricks. Imagine him getting one of the best trainers in the world like a Ronnie Shields who’s going to teach you footwork, who’s going to teach you speed and movement and not be so heavy on your feet."

De La Hoya specifically highlighted Alvarez’s footwork as a critical area for improvement. "So imagine with his power and his reflexes – he still has a chance to fight several more fights with the elites, but he needs a new trainer."

The Crawford fight underscored the significance of footwork and movement in boxing. Crawford consistently outmaneuvered Alvarez, creating angles and dictating the pace of the fight. Alvarez, known for his power and counter-punching abilities, struggled to land effectively against Crawford’s elusive style.

De La Hoya’s suggestion of Ronnie Shields, a highly respected trainer with a track record of developing world champions, underscores the potential benefits of a change in approach. Shields, who has worked with the likes of Evander Holyfield, Mike Tyson, and Jermall Charlo, is renowned for his emphasis on fundamental skills, including footwork, defense, and ring generalship.

The relationship between Alvarez and Reynoso has been characterized by loyalty and mutual respect. Reynoso has been a constant presence in Alvarez’s corner throughout his career, guiding him through numerous high-profile fights and title defenses. However, the boxing landscape is replete with examples of fighters who have benefited from changing trainers late in their careers, seeking new perspectives and strategies to overcome plateaus or adapt to evolving competition.

De La Hoya, having shared the ring with boxing legends such as Floyd Mayweather Jr., Manny Pacquiao, and Bernard Hopkins, drew parallels between Alvarez’s struggles against Crawford and his previous defeats against Mayweather Jr. and Dmitry Bivol. In those fights, Alvarez appeared frustrated and unable to effectively implement his game plan.

"It’s called frustration," De La Hoya explained. "When you’re facing a Floyd, he got frustrated. When he faced Bivol, he got frustrated, tried to lift him up and body slam him in the ring. When he got hit by Crawford, and he took that deep breath, he’s frustrated. Don’t get me wrong, Canelo facing the right opponent that is going to stay in front of him, that’s going to fight, that’s going to make it a brawl, Canelo knocks ’em out."

De La Hoya stopped short of suggesting Alvarez was past his prime. "So I’m not saying Canelo’s shot or done, no. It’s far from it. It’s all on the matchmaking; it’s all who you put in front of him. It’s all about squeezing those last dollars from the fans, Canelo."

The comments raise questions about the future direction of Alvarez’s career. Alvarez has consistently sought out challenging opponents, and his willingness to face Crawford, a pound-for-pound rated fighter, is a testament to his ambition. However, the loss to Crawford raises questions about whether Alvarez needs to re-evaluate his training and preparation to remain competitive at the highest level.

Alvarez’s recent record includes victories over Gennady Golovkin, Jermell Charlo, and John Ryder. However, his loss to Bivol in 2022 and the defeat to Crawford have exposed vulnerabilities in his game.

A potential rematch between Alvarez and Crawford has been discussed, although no official announcement has been made. Whether Alvarez will heed De La Hoya’s advice and seek a new trainer remains to be seen. Alvarez has consistently demonstrated loyalty to his team, and a decision to part ways with Reynoso would be a significant one.

However, the boxing world is a results-oriented business, and Alvarez’s performance against Crawford has undoubtedly raised questions about the need for change. A new trainer could potentially bring fresh ideas, strategies, and techniques to Alvarez’s training camp, potentially revitalizing his career and extending his reign as one of boxing’s top stars.

Alvarez’s next move will be closely watched by boxing fans and analysts alike. His decision regarding his training team will likely have a significant impact on his future performances and his ability to compete against the elite fighters in the sport.

As of now, Alvarez has not publicly commented on De La Hoya’s suggestion or his future plans. The coming weeks and months will likely provide more clarity on the direction of his career and whether he will consider a change in trainers. The decision ultimately rests with Alvarez, and it will be a pivotal moment in determining the next chapter of his storied career.

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