TThe sports world began 2026 with a shocking story in terms of numbers. Although he didn’t win in 2025, Canelo Alvarez surpassed other legends in his field and established himself as one of the highest-paid athletes.
The Mexican boxer is one of boxing’s greatest figures, and despite his loss to Terrence Crawford, the Mexican remains at the top of the world’s highest-paid athletes, even surpassing Lionel Messi, a milestone that surprised many.
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Canelo Alvarez surpasses Messi
Mexican boxer Saul “Canelo” Álvarez has achieved the feat most expected: knocking Lionel Messi off the global earnings podium and establishing himself as the second highest-paid athlete on the planet, according to a new report from specialist consulting firm Sportico.
Alvarez ended the year with a whopping $137 million, $7 million more than the Argentine star, who was in third place with $130 million.
Here are the top 5 highest paid players.
Cristiano Ronaldo – $260 million Saul “Canelo” Alvarez – $137 million Lionel Messi – $130 million Dolphin Soto (MLB) – $129.2 million LeBron James – $128.7 million
Messi didn’t want to be the highest paid man in the world
Lionel Messi takes the issue in stride, as if he wants to be at the top of this list despite being surpassed by Canelo and Cristiano Ronaldo, but the Argentine has other priorities.
It was recently revealed that Messi received an offer to play for Al Ittihad in 2023 and despite the huge offer, the Argentine turned it down.
“Yes, I contacted him earlier when his contract with PSG ended. I offered him 1.4 billion euros (400 million euros per season). He rejected such a high offer, even though he persuaded his family. However, He did not hesitate because family is more important than money. I respect him and Al Ittihad will always open the door for him. He is always welcome to come, ”said the team’s president Ammar Al Khairi.
