Canelo Álvarez has strong message for Mexican migrants in the United States: “Fear consumes you”
As mass deportations continue under Trump, the Mexican boxing icon urges undocumented immigrants to seek peace and clarity amid crisis.
Since Donald Trump returned to the presidency of the United States, many undocumented Mexican immigrants have faced a living nightmare. The wave of deportations has sent shockwaves through the Mexican community and beyond. Now, one of Mexico’s most celebrated public figures, boxing champion Saúl “Canelo” Álvarez, has spoken out in support of those affected – urging them to seek dignity, peace, and perspective.
“I think fear is what consumes you – fear takes over your mind, makes you question whether something will happen or not. But at the end of the day, everyone came here to improve their lives, to move forward,” Canelo told Mayan Tiger Sports Journalist.
Mexico, Álvarez and Trump’s deportations
According to CNN, Mexico has received approximately 20,000 deported citizens and foreign nationals since Trump took office on January 20.
“Personally,” Álvarez continued, “I think people need to ask themselves if it’s worth staying here, living in fear, not going outside, being fugitives in the eyes of the law. Is it worth staying – or is it better to return home?”
In response to the surge in deportations, Mexico launched a national employment platform that has helped around 500 returning citizens find work, an effort to reintegrate those sent back by U.S. immigration enforcement.
Canelo stressed the value of determination and hard work no matter the location:“Wherever you are, if you’re motivated, if you go out and work, you can do it anywhere. But more than anything, people have to weigh their situation: ‘What am I doing here? Is this helping me move forward? Am I doing okay here?’ You have to look at the balance – maybe you’ll do better elsewhere, maybe you’ll be closer to family.”
The Mexican government is especially concerned. Mexicans make up nearly half of the 11 million undocumented immigrants in the U.S., and the money they send home represents nearly 4% of Mexico’s GDP. In 2024 alone, remittances hit a record $65 billion.
But for Canelo, it’s about something deeper.“Above all, the first thing in life is to be at peace – to have calm. No matter where you are, there’s nothing more valuable than peace of mind. If I can give any advice, it’s this: wherever you are, be somewhere you can feel at peace. Only then can you see things clearly.”
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