Alvarez pulls out of Golovkin rematch over drugs controversy

Los Angeles - Saul "Canelo" Alvarez on Tuesday withdrew from his May 5 rematch against middleweight rival Gennady Golovkin in the wake of his failed drugs test.

"We're going to have to cancel the May 5 rematch," Golden Boy Promotions president Eric Gomez told reporters in Los Angeles.

Mexican star Alvarez, who was already under suspension from the Nevada State Athletic Commission, insisted in a statement he was a "clean fighter."

"I am truly shocked about what has happened, and for those who have doubts and suspicions about my integrity I have always been and always will be a clean fighter," Alvarez said.

"I want to apologize to ... everyone who is involved in the promotion of this event and especially to the fans. I respect this sport. I will always be a clean fighter."