World Cup: Canelo Alvarez blasts Lionel Messi for ‘disrespecting’ Mexico flag

Mexico boxing champion Canelo Alvarez did not hold back when asked about a video showing Argentina superstar Lionel Messi allegedly disrespecting Mexico’s jersey after La Albiceleste’s 2-0 victory in 2022 World Cup Group C on Sunday.

Alvarez accused Messi of cleaning the floor with Mexico’s jersey. The 32-year-old boxer threw some strong words at Messi after seeing his locker room celebration video.

“Did you guys see Messi cleaning the floor with our jersey and flag,” Alvarez tweeted. “He better pray to God that I don’t find him. Just like I respect Argentina, he has to respect Mexico!”

“I’m not talking about the country as a whole, just about the bulls**t that Messi did.”

However, Alvarez’s claim was denied by Argentinian fans, saying that the boxer is simply looking for attention. Some replied to Alvarez’s tweet, saying that Messi was only taking off his shoes.

Even Mexican fans were skeptical about Alvarez’s allegations, with most believing the former Barcelona striker was simply taking off his boots after the game while his teammates were celebrating.

Messi was seen in a short video in the locker room after Argentina’s victory on Sunday. Then, the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner was seen unintentionally stepping on Mexico’s jersey when taking off his shoes.

There is still no official statement from the team regarding Alvarez’s claim against Messi.

Messi, on the other hand, was pleased to have scored that kept his country’s World Cup ambitions alive following their shocking 2-1 loss to Saudi Arabia in the Group C opener last Tuesday. He said that the team needs the euphoria and motivation going to the next game. Since their previous loss, this was a crucial game for Argentina.

“(Winning) was a weight off our shoulders, and we now have peace of mind,” Messi said. “The first half was difficult due to the situation and the need to win. We couldn’t find space. In the second half, we started playing our game and doing what we stand for. … The goal changed the game.”

Argentina will face Poland on December 1. This game will be the key for La Albiceleste to the round of 16.