During his visit to his old high school, Canelo Álvarez was shocked to discover that his beloved janitor, Mr. John, was still working at 79 years old to support his family. What Canelo did next not only changed Mr. John’s life forever, but also left the school and the entire country speechless!
In an act that has touched the hearts of millions, Saúl “Canelo” Álvarez, the world boxing champion, created an unforgettable moment during a visit to his old high school in Guadalajara on May 14, 2025. What began as a nostalgic return to his roots turned into a story of generosity and humanity that has left Mexico and the entire world in tears of emotion.
Canelo, who is in the midst of preparing to face Terence Crawford on September 12 in Las Vegas, decided to visit Juan Rulfo High School, where he attended as a teenager. As he walked through the halls filled with memories, he encountered a familiar figure: Mr. John, the custodian who had cared for the school for more than 40 years. At 79 years old, Mr. John still worked tirelessly, sweeping the classrooms and tidying the playgrounds, all to support his family.
“I was shocked to see him,” Canelo recounted in an interview with Televisa Deportes. “Mr. John was always a kind man, always smiling, even when things were difficult for me at school. Seeing him work at his age broke my heart.” Canelo learned that John, a father of five and grandfather of twelve, had been unable to retire because his savings weren’t enough to cover the medical needs of his wife, who suffers from diabetes.
Without hesitation, Canelo made a decision that would change Mr. John’s life forever. During an impromptu speech in front of the school’s students and teachers, he announced that he would pay all of John’s wife’s medical expenses and provide her with a monthly pension for life so she could retire with dignity. But that wasn’t all: Canelo also donated 2 million pesos to renovate the school, including a new library and a gymnasium that will be named in John’s honor.
“This man taught me what it means to work hard and never give up,” Canelo said, his voice breaking with emotion. “Now it’s my turn to give back. He deserves to rest and enjoy his family after so many years of sacrifice.” A visibly overwhelmed Mr. John couldn’t hold back his tears as he hugged Canelo in front of a crowd of students who applauded amid cheers and cries.
The news quickly spread across social media, where Canelo’s fans and Mexican citizens praised his generosity. “This is what makes Canelo a true champion, in and out of the ring,” wrote one user on X. Another added: “Mr. John represents so many hard workers who never receive recognition. Thank you, Canelo, for seeing it and taking action.”
This isn’t Canelo’s first philanthropic act, as he has donated millions to children’s hospitals and foundations for children with cancer in the past. However, this personal story has resonated deeply, showing the human side of a superstar who, despite his wealth and fame, never forgot his humble roots or the people who supported him along the way.
Canelo’s gesture has not only transformed Mr. John’s life, allowing him to finally retire and take care of his family, but it has also inspired a nation. Juan Rulfo High School now shines brightly, and Mr. John’s name will be engraved as a symbol of gratitude and perseverance.
What do you think of this incredible story? How has Canelo’s gesture inspired you? Share your thoughts in the comments, and don’t forget to share this story so more people can be touched by this act of kindness.
