“Boxing Took Away the Hatred and Gave Me Life”: The Redemption of Rosendo Álvarez in an Intimate Talk with Pepe Sulaimán

Within the framework of the World Boxing Council’s 59th Convention in 2021, legendary Nicaraguan two-weight world champion Rosendo “El Búfalo” Álvarez sat down before Pepe Sulaimán’s camera to offer one of the most harrowing yet hopeful testimonies in the organization’s recent history. More than a sports interview, the encounter was a journey through pain, war, and salvation via the squared circle.

With brutal honesty, Álvarez recalled the moment that marked his childhood at age seven: seeing his father’s face light up with joy over a victory by the late Alexis Argüello. Only three years later, his father and brother were murdered during Nicaragua’s civil war, leaving a void that Rosendo initially tried to fill with a thirst for vengeance.

Rosendo did not shy away from difficult topics. He recounted how, after reaching the summit and earning significant wealth, he fell into the traps of ego and bad company. He spoke openly about his struggle with alcoholism and how personal problems took a toll on his performance—specifically regarding his fight against Jorge “Travieso” Arce, which he entered with a “shattered mind” due to a painful divorce process.

A standout moment in the conversation was the gesture of Miguel Cotto, who was the only person to enter his locker room after that defeat to give him a hug and remind him that life goes on.

Today, Rosendo Álvarez has transformed his past into a mission of service. As a WBC Ambassador for Charitable Works, he works alongside his wife, promoter Ruth Rodríguez, not only boosting boxing through their company Buffalo Boxing but also performing critical humanitarian work, such as the donation of high-tech ultrasound equipment to hospitals in Nicaragua.

This interview by Pepe Sulaimán does not only portray a sports idol, but a man who managed to win his darkest battles outside the ring, reminding us that an athlete’s greatest treasure is not money, but the appreciation and affection of their people.