Renowned trainer Eddy Reynoso has fiercely defended his reputation after being dragged into the doping scandal involving Mexican fighter Francisco “Chihuas” Rodriguez.
Rodriguez analytically tested positive for a banned substance following his stunning win over Olympic gold medalist Galal Yafai in June, as revealed by Matchroom Boxing.
Hours before, a photo emerged of Reynoso alongside Rodriguez, and speculation exploded online. As the image went viral, some falsely suggested the coach was involved in the boxer’s preparation.
Reynoso’s Full Statement
Reynoso, known for masterminding the rise of Canelo Alvarez, responded directly to the allegations on Thursday with a full statement under his “No Boxing, No Life” brand.
“Given the recent comments and speculations about my relationship with boxer Francisco ‘Chihuas’ Rodriguez, it is pertinent to make the following clear:
“First and foremost, I am not Francisco’s coach or manager, whom I had the pleasure of meeting in person just yesterday.
“The support he received was through the promotion and sponsorship of the No Boxing No Life brand, which arranged three fights with Clase y Talento to help him achieve a championship fight.”
Denying Guilt by Association
On the guilty by association allegations, Reynoso added, “I have dedicated almost my entire life to boxing because it is my passion and reason for being; everything I have achieved has been through sacrifice, discipline, and dedication.
“In the way we supported Francisco, we have supported many fighters, and we will continue to do so until God allows us to.
“Regarding the positive test result in his recent fight, it will be Francisco who will have to make the pertinent clarifications regarding the same.
“I had no participation of any kind in that fight, nor was I present at it; therefore, I will not comment on it. To Francisco, all our support, and that he may overcome this obstacle.”
Prior Doping Links
Having links to five boxers who have tested positive, Reynoso’s reputation is taking a beating. Rodriguez follows Jaime Munguia, Julio Cesar Martinez, Ryan Garcia, and Canelo Alvarez himself.
Reynoso is making it clear he had nothing to do with Chihuas’ preparations.
“I consider it unfair that for appearing in a photo supporting Francisco Rodriguez, they want to hold me responsible for situations outside of my work.
“In my position as a trainer or manager, I have nothing to do with my fighters’ nutrition plans. I don’t cook for the fighters, I don’t buy their food, I don’t give them supplements, I don’t recommend supplements, and I certainly don’t give them banned substances.
“I support drug testing and clean boxing, and I hope that everyone I work with shares the same values.
“I am very grateful to the professional media that have investigated in depth and that have reported the facts about me,” he concluded.
Supporting Anti-doping
Reynoso’s statement is an apparent attempt to distance himself from any implication that his gym culture condones or promotes performance-enhancing drug use.
His reference to “clean boxing” reaffirms his long-standing position in support of anti-doping measures and VADA testing.
As of now, Rodriguez remains under investigation, with the result of the bout against Yafai hanging in the balance.
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