“It’s my life. It’s my career. I know what I’m doing. I lost this fight, yes, but I’m going to be with Eddy and Chepo my entire life,” Canelo Alvarez told The Athletic after suffering his first career loss to legendary Floyd Mayweather in 2013. You see, a wave of criticism had washed over the Canelo corner after that fight—they said the loss was not on Canelo, it was on his team. 

Canelo, who went on to become the undisputed super middleweight champion, knew what he had with Eddy and Chepo Reynoso was special and he wasn’t about to let it go because of one loss. This remained the case when ‘Cinnamon’ suffered another upset against Dmitry Bivol in 2022, showcasing a sense of loyalty, which is rarely seen. Today, as Eddy Reynoso celebrates his 48th birthday, Canelo is right by his side, honoring the man who’s been instrumental in his journey.

Eddy Reynoso and Canelo Alvarez: A Bond Beyond the Ring

Their first encounter seemed unremarkable at the time—a 13-year-old Canelo Alvarez, filled with ambition and a passion for boxing, walked into the gym of Eddy Reynoso and his legendary father, Chepo, in Guadalajara, Mexico. From that moment on, the seeds of a world-conquering partnership were planted.

As they rose together, Reynoso’s talent drew other big names, including Ryan Garcia, Oscar Valdez, and Andy Ruiz Jr., into his orbit. Canelo had always believed deeply in Reynoso’s abilities. “I’ve always known Eddy’s talent,” Canelo shared. “I’ve always wanted people to see that.”

Even as others branched out on their own journeys, Canelo’s loyalty to Reynoso, who molded him into the champion he is today, has never wavered. Outside the ring, their bond has become more like family, a closeness Canelo celebrated in a heartfelt social media post on Reynoso’s birthday. “Happy Birthday, Dad! Thanks for everything!” Canelo wrote, adding, “Many happy returns of the day. Love you so much.”

Alongside the tribute, Canelo shared cherished photos from their years together, which stirred an outpouring of emotion from fans who have long admired the duo’s journey. For them, it was a moment to celebrate the enduring connection between a boxer and the trainer who has been at his side every step of the way.

Reynoso responds to the outpouring of wishes

Soon after the post went live, Reynoso found his way to the comments of the post and thanked his pupil. “Thank you very much, my boy! straight to the front like a bumper cart 🚗 I want it a lot 👊🏼 👊🏼 🙏🏻,” Reynoso wrote. However, it wasn’t just him responding—the boxing world did too. 

One user praised the former undisputed super middleweight champion for his years of loyalty through thick and thin. “The most loyal boxer in boxing history 🔥,” the user wrote. Interestingly, while people have criticized Reynoso because of the losses, people barely take the time to congratulate him for his pupil’s remarkable success. 

Another user sent his well-wishes to Reynoso. “Happy Birthday Coach Eddy. May God’s grace and his blessings be upon you and your loved ones for today’s festivities and God willing, many more,” the user wrote. Fun fact: The Ring Magazine named Reynoso the trainer of the year in 2019 and 2021. 

Someone else honored Reynoso for being Canelo’s foster father. “Canelo’s foster dad 🙏🏻❤️ 🩹 legends,” the user commented. For those curious, Canelo’s real father is Santos Alvarez. But he has been with the Reynoso’s since he was only thirteen.

Meanwhile, this user was in the mood for a party. The user asked, “Where are we going to celebrate??” Unfortunately, it might be a private affair. 

Canelo Alvarez’s latest post on social media shows how some roles go beyond just a job, forging lasting bonds—even in a brutal sport like boxing. On behalf of everyone at EssentiallySports, we wish Coach Eddy Reynoso a very happy and special birthday! Do you have any birthday wishes for him?