Generosity and Cultural Solidarity
In a remarkable display of generosity and cultural solidarity, boxing superstar Canelo Alvarez recently made headlines with a donation ahead of his highly anticipated bout. Just over a month before his scheduled September 13, 2025 fight against Terence Crawford, Alvarez contributed to the cause of Candelaria Rivas Ramos, an accomplished 38-year-old runner from the Indigenous Rarámuri community in Mexico.
Support for Candelaria Rivas Ramos
The donation, reported to be around 2 million pesos, which translates to approximately $110,000 USD, supports Ramos and her family, with aims to assist in her children’s education and to help her start a crafts business. The act of kindness comes in the wake of Ramos’s inspiring triumph at the Canyon Ultra Marathon in Copper Canyon, Chihuahua, where she completed the 63-kilometer race in an astounding 7 hours and 34 minutes, despite having no formal training and running in traditional huaraches.
The Journey of Candelaria Rivas Ramos
Candelaria’s journey to the race is just as compelling. The Rarámuri, which means “light feet”, are famed for their incredible stamina and ability as long-distance runners. To compete, Ramos walked for 14 hours from her village, illustrating the spirit of perseverance that has become emblematic of her culture. Her victory not only resonated throughout Mexico but also caught the attention of the global sports community, serving as a powerful symbol of Indigenous pride and resilience.
Impact of the Donation
While reports online quickly circulated claiming Alvarez’s donation to be in USD, many sources verified the amount was in pesos. Nonetheless, whether the figure was interpreted as $2 million or 2 million pesos, the impact of the financial assistance is undeniable; it represents a life-changing opportunity for Ramos and her family.
Canelo Alvarez’s Admiration
Upon hearing about Ramos’s remarkable story, Alvarez, known for his own commitment to excellence and overcoming challenges, publicly admired her strength in a heartfelt video, dubbing her a champion. The boxer’s generosity has since been met with widespread acclaim, affirming both Candelaria’s newfound status and Canelo’s dedication to uplifting fellow Mexicans.
Legacy and Cultural Role Model
This act of philanthropy carries weight beyond mere financial aid, positioning Alvarez as a cultural role model and cementing his legacy in the hearts of many. Regardless of the fight outcome against Crawford, Canelo’s role as a national icon is further solidified, showcasing his compassion and dedication to the community.
Significance in Society
Phil Jay, a seasoned boxing journalist with more than 15 years of experience, notes the significance of this event not just in the ring but in its broader impact on society. As the Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News, Jay emphasizes the importance of athletes using their platforms to inspire and uplift those around them.
