Key Facts at a Glance
Canelo Álvarez is known worldwide, but his legal name and biographic details are sometimes unclear. Below is a concise, verified reference you can rely on over time.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Full legal name | Saúl Armendáriz Quintana | Public records / fighter documentation |
| Common nickname | Canelo (Spanish for cinnamon) | Media & fighter usage |
| Date of birth | 18 July 1990 | Boxing commissions |
| Place of birth | Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico | Biographical sources |
| Primary division | Middleweight (formerly light middleweight, super middleweight) | Sanctioning bodies & record sites |
Why Names Matter in Professional Boxing
In combat sports, a fighter's legal name is used for licensing, contracts, and records, while nicknames serve branding and fan identity. Understanding both helps clarify news, contracts, and legacy discussion. Canelo's case illustrates how a Spanish nickname can become globally dominant while the legal name remains consistent in official contexts.
Canelo Álvarez's Full Legal Name
Across boxing commission filings, promotional contracts, and official records, the name listed is Saúl Armendáriz Quintana. The given names are Saúl Armendáriz, and Quintana is his maternal surname, following Mexican naming conventions. Prominent bodies such as the WBC, WBO, and Nevada State Athletic Commission use this exact legal form in documentation.
Name Components Explained
- Saúl: Given name inherited from his father.
- Armendáriz: Paternal surname, common in Mexican records.
- Quintana: Maternal family name, used in official contexts to distinguish full identity.
Origin and Meaning of the Nickname 'Canelo'
"Canelo" is Spanish for "cinnamon-colored" or simply "cinnamon." The nickname reportedly arose early in his career due to his red hair and complexion. Over time, it became his marketable identity, used on fight posters, merchandise, and broadcast graphics worldwide.
Early Life and Background
Born in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, he grew up in a boxing-oriented family. His father and uncles had connections to the sport, and he began training at a young age. Moving to Mexico City and then to the United States shaped his professional trajectory, allowing him to compete at increasingly elite levels.
Professional Milestones and Records
Canelo has competed across multiple weight classes, from junior middleweight to light heavyweight, holding world titles in several divisions. His career includes marquee victories, closely contested decisions, and high-profile rematches. The table below summarizes key metrics that remain stable and useful for long-term context.
| Metric | Estimate or Range | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Professional debut | 26 September 2005 | First pro fight at age 15 |
| Major world titles | 4+ divisions | Wins at junior middleweight, super middleweight, light heavyweight |
| Record (as of latest official data) | 58–2–0 (W–L–D) | Widely reported in boxing records |
| Known nickname | Canelo | Used universally in media and promotions |
Common Misconceptions and Clarifications
Some assume Canelo is a shortened legal first name, but it is a nickname. Others confuse his maternal surname with a stage name. Clear documentation shows his legal identity remains Saúl Armendáriz Quintana, while Canelo functions as a brand label used in entertainment and sport.
Relationship with Family and Team
Family members often appear in his corner and promotional materials, yet the fighter's professional decisions are channeled through managers and advisors. Understanding the distinction between personal family networks and business representation helps contextualize career choices and sponsorships.
Where to Find Authoritative Sources
- Boxing commission records (e.g., California, Nevada, New York)
- Official federation sites like WBC and WBO
- Licensed promoter filing documents
- Reputable boxing statistical databases
For ongoing reference, treat legal names and commission IDs as fixed data, while nicknames and branding evolve with market perception. This approach supports long-term accuracy in reporting and discussion.