Mexican professional boxer Canelo Álvarez wore some out-of-this-world custom shoes made by designer Kiko Baez during a recent fight in Guadalajara, Jalisco, in Mexico.
Álvarez, a proud “Tapatio” wore these custom-made shoes during his bout with John Ryder, which he won by unanimous decision, defending his multiple super middleweight titles. Álvarez dropped Ryder in the fifth round, but Ryder survived the count and continued to fight. Despite this, Álvarez continued his winning ways. Álvarez’s record is now 59-2-2. This fight was his first in his home country since knocking out Kermit Cintrón in 2011.
Álvarez’s Mexcio-themed shoes made as big of a statement as his boxing in the ring. Per a press release, “the design concept is inspired by the Charros (cowboys) of the Jalisco region of Mexico, featuring traditional frets surrounding his logo, detailed with Swarovski crystals. The color green gives homage to his Mexican heritage, and the gold accents give credit to his champion status, or better yet, “Undisputed” champion status, as displayed across the heel.”
Baez’s design nails the juxtaposition of hard-working boots the Charros are known for, and the top adds the perfect flair that Álvarez is known for.
A native of Tijuana, Baez has worked with big names such as Daddy Yankee, Pitbull, Christian Nodal, Eddy Reynoso, J Balvin, and of course, Álvarez. His brand name, Exclusivo Baez, is described on his website as a “Mexican luxury brand located in Tijuana, Baja California, that develops unique pieces that transcend in time.”
Álvarez has always been a self-labeled sneakerhead.
“Ever since I was a kid, I’ve always had a love for sneakers,” Canelo Álvarez previously said to Hypebeast. “When I was growing up in Guadalajara, Jalisco, I owned a lot. Back then K-Swiss was my favorite brand because that was the most affordable for me.” He also expressed a love for the comfort of Mizuno’s, saying they were “one of the most comfortable shoe brands for fighting.”