First Words from Canelo Álvarez after Training with Ryan García for his fight against Mario Barrios

Mexico City / Guadalajara, February 20, 2026 – The boxing world is abuzz ahead of the imminent fight for the WBC welterweight world title between Mario Barrios and Ryan García, scheduled for this Saturday, February 21 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. But in the center of attention are not only the protagonists of the ring, but also Saúl “Canelo” Álvarez, who has opened the doors of his camp to “King Ry” García so that he can train under the supervision of Eddy Reynoso.

After several days of intense sessions in the San Diego gym, Canelo broke the silence and gave his first public statements about this unexpected collaboration, generating headlines around the planet.

In an exclusive interview given to ESPN Deportes and shared on his social networks, Canelo spoke with the frankness that characterizes him, without filters or detours. “Ryan is a guy with a lot of talent, but also with a lot of noise around him. I invited him because I know he can be a great champion if he focuses. In the gym I have seen him work hard, sweat bullets, and I like that. It’s not easy to come here, where every day is war, and he is doing well.

But I told him clearly: boxing is not just about hitting the bag or having power; It is discipline 24/7, and that is what it lacks sometimes.”

Canelo, who has not fought since his dominant victory over Edgar Berlanga in September 2025, explained that the decision to help García was not coincidental. “Ryan looked for me after his loss against Tank [Gervonta Davis in 2023] and some personal problems. He told me: ‘Canelo, I need to go back to the basics, I need to feel like a champion again.’

The 35-year-old Mexican, multiple champion in four divisions and considered one of the best pound-for-pound on the planet, did not skimp on constructive criticism. “Ryan has speed, power in the left hook and charisma to fill stadiums. But sometimes he gets lost in the show, in the networks, in the drama. I told him: ‘If you want to be a real champion, turn off the phone for a while and focus on the ring.’ I think he is understanding. These days I saw him sparring with high-level sparring partners and he defended himself well.

He has everything to win on Saturday, but he has to believe it first.”

Regarding the specific fight against Mario Barrios, Canelo was direct: “Mario is a solid, technical champion, with good defense and experience. He is not a guy who is easily intimidated. Ryan is going to have to be more than just fast and punchy; he is going to have to be intelligent, keep his distance and not fall into the pure exchange because Barrios can hurt him. But if Ryan fights like he is training here, with a cool head and quick hands, he can win by decision or even by KO in the middle rounds.

“I believe in him, but he has to believe in himself more.”

Canelo also touched on Garcia’s former trainer, Joe Goossen, who now trains Barrios. “It’s boxing, it’s business. Joe is a great trainer, he worked with Ryan before and now he’s in the opposite corner. That adds more flavor to the fight. Ryan knows how Joe thinks, Joe knows how Ryan fights. It will be interesting to see who uses that information best.” Álvarez smiled as he recalled his own story: “It happened to me too. When I fought Golovkin the second time, his corner knew my weaknesses and I knew his.

In the end, the one who executes best on the day of the fight wins.”

The undisputed super middleweight champion (168 pounds) confirmed that he will be present in Las Vegas on Saturday, not only as a spectator, but as direct support for García. “I’m going to be in the front row, shouting like it’s my fight. Ryan is part of the Reynoso family now, even if it’s temporary. I told him: ‘Win this Saturday and then we’ll see what’s next.’ But first, let him show that he can be champion.”

Canelo’s statements have generated immediate reactions. On social networks, thousands of Mexican and American fans applauded the generosity of the man from Guadalajara: “Canelo is not only the best, he is also a great boxing brother,” wrote one user. Others highlighted the contrast with the past: “Ryan left Canelo’s camp in 2022 because he wanted independence, and now he is returning asking for help. That speaks well of both.”

For his part, Mario Barrios responded in an interview with The Ring: “I respect Canelo a lot, he is the pound-for-pound king. But on Saturday he doesn’t fight, Ryan fights. And Ryan is going to have to enter the ring alone. I am ready for whatever comes, with Joe [Goossen] in my corner and with all the hunger in the world. I am not afraid of the hype or the comments of legends.”

Ryan García, for his part, posted a photo on Instagram training with Canelo with the caption: “Working with the best to become the best. Thank you boss @canelo. #BarriosGarcia #Feb21.” The Californian seems revitalized, and Canelo’s words could be the mental boost he needed after years of ups and downs.

In summary, these first statements from Canelo after the joint camp not only raise expectations for Saturday, but also remind us why Álvarez is more than a boxer: he is a reference, a mentor and a figure that transcends the ring. If Ryan García manages to capitalize on this experience, he could be facing the rebirth of his career. If it fails, the criticism will return with greater force. But one thing is certain: on Saturday, February 21, Las Vegas will witness a key chapter in modern boxing history, and Canelo Álvarez has already left his mark on it.