By Miguel Rivera
World Boxing Council President Mauricio Sulaiman is very proud of the National Sports Award received by Mexican superstar Saul "Canelo" Alvarez - who picked up the top prize in the pro category.
He says the award only highlights that the Guadalajara boxer has become an elite fighter. Sulaiman fully believes that Canelo's positive test for the banned substance clenbuterol was a non-issue due to food contamination.
“It’s a very well deserved award for Saul after having defeated Gennady Golovkin, and also for having overcome that doping problem that in the end was non-existent," Sulaiman said. “He had the mental and physical strength to conquer the world in the ring on the night of September 15, it is something we will never forget."
Sulaiman was one of the guests at the National Sports Awards in Mexico. They were presented by the President of Mexico, Enrique Peña Nieto, at the official residence of Los Pinos.
Sulaiman also stressed that this recognition will encourage and inspire the new generations of Mexican fighters to put on their gloves and follow Canelo's path in boxing.
“This moment is great, because he puts our sport at the top. The fact that he received it from the President is something very rewarding. I’m sure sure that many children seeing this will want to put on their gloves and climb the ring to follow Canelo.”
He recalled that at the time the late Don Jose Sulaiman always wished that a boxer was capable of winning the top national award.
“It’s something of which my Dad always dreamed about. Canelo did it, we thank Conade, the COM, and all of those who voted to give a place to boxing,” stated the head of the WBC, who added
“Three years ago we were present to honor my father here. This is something we will never forget. We will always carry it in our hearts."