As he continues his preparation for his September 12 bout against Christian Mbilli, Saúl “Canelo” Álvarez has once again made headlines outside the ring. The Mexican champion publicly revealed a $100,000 bet on the Mexican national team for the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup against South Africa. The image shared by the boxer on social media reflects his confidence in the national team. Should Mexico win, the Guadalajara native would receive a total payout of $140,000, representing a profit of $40,000 on the amount wagered.
However, beyond the financial aspect, the gesture carries strong symbolic significance. Canelo’s commitment aligns with one of the greatest historical challenges facing Mexican soccer: securing its first-ever victory in a World Cup opening match.
El Tri’s long-standing struggle in World Cup debuts
Ready for tomorrow with @Kalshi
Pure 🇲🇽🇲🇽🇲🇽https://t.co/venlHpgMj1 pic.twitter.com/sPoFldrgKP— Canelo Alvarez (@Canelo) June 10, 2026
Mexico has played in seven opening matches in World Cup history and has never won one.
The record stands at five losses and two ties.
The first such defeat came at the 1930 World Cup in Uruguay, when El Tri lost 4-1 to France.
This was followed by defeats against Brazil in the 1950, 1954, and 1962 World Cups, as well as a loss to Sweden in 1958.
History began to change in Mexico in 1970.
On that occasion, Azteca Stadium was the site of a scoreless draw between Mexico and the Soviet Union, a result that prevented another loss in their opening match.
Decades later, at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, the Mexican national team once again played in the tournament’s opening match.
They drew 1-1 against the home team thanks to a memorable goal by Rafael Márquez.
Despite these positive results, victory remains an unfulfilled goal for Mexican soccer (Filed under: Canelo Álvarez backs Mexico).
He once again became news outside the ring
QuéOnnda.com
Canelo is in it for more than just money
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The fortune Canelo Álvarez has amassed over the course of his career makes the bet on Mexico a relatively small sum for the boxer.
However, the message behind the move is clear: absolute confidence in the Mexican national team.
In addition, the Mexican champion will be at the stadium to take part in the official events surrounding the match.
Including the presentation of the Most Valuable Player award.
If Mexico beats South Africa, Canelo will earn $40,000.
But for Mexican soccer, the reward would be much greater:
To finally secure their first victory in a World Cup opener and kick off the 2026 World Cup by making history in front of their home fans.
For more information, visit QuéOnnda.com.