Bill Belichick’s roast of Tom Brady at Netflix’s comedy special wasn’t just about playful jabs at the legendary quarterback. One joke, aimed at Alex Guerrero, Brady’s long-time friend and business partner, stood out, reminding everyone of the controversies surrounding the TB12 method and its creator. This article delves into who Alex Guerrero is, his relationship with Brady, and the drama that unfolded between Guerrero and Belichick during their time with the Patriots.
Alex Guerrero: The Man Behind TB12
Alex Guerrero has worn many hats in Tom Brady’s life: spiritual guide, counselor, friend, nutrition advisor, trainer, massage therapist, and even family member (godfather to Brady’s son). He’s best known as the co-creator of the TB12 Method, a fitness and wellness program emphasizing pliability, hydration, and a restrictive diet. Guerrero’s influence on Brady’s career is undeniable, shaping his training regimen and lifestyle choices that contributed to his longevity in the NFL.
Before his close association with Brady, Guerrero trained other notable NFL players like LaDainian Tomlinson and T.J. Houshmandzadeh. During his time with the Patriots, Guerrero worked with several key players on the Super Bowl 51-winning team, including Danny Amendola, Jacoby Brissett, Julian Edelman, Jimmy Garoppolo, Rob Gronkowski, Duron Harmon, and Chris Hogan. They trained at Guerrero’s Foxborough facility, solidifying his presence within the team.
The TB12 Method and Controversy
The TB12 Method, developed by Brady and Guerrero, promotes a holistic approach to health and fitness. While it has gained popularity, it’s also faced scrutiny. Guerrero’s past includes a run-in with the Federal Trade Commission, which prohibited him from calling himself a doctor after he made unsubstantiated claims about a supplement curing cancer and other diseases. This controversy, along with the unconventional nature of some TB12 practices, has drawn criticism from the medical community.
The Belichick-Guerrero-Brady Triangle
The relationship between Bill Belichick and Alex Guerrero was a source of tension within the Patriots organization. Belichick eventually revoked Guerrero’s access to team facilities, including the sideline, team plane, and training areas for players other than Brady. This decision stemmed from concerns about Guerrero’s influence over players and a desire to establish clear boundaries.
While Brady remained publicly supportive of both Belichick and Guerrero, the underlying tension contributed to the eventual breakdown of the Brady-Belichick partnership. Belichick’s roast joke about Guerrero wasn’t just a comedic jab; it was a public reminder of the behind-the-scenes drama that played a role in the ending of a dynasty. Guerrero, though not directly involved in football operations, became a significant figure in the Patriots’ narrative, highlighting the complexities of relationships and power dynamics within a professional sports team.
