Canelo Alvarez dismisses security concerns ahead of Riyadh title fight

Saul "Canelo" Alvarez says he is excited to be back in Riyadh and ready to reclaim a world super-middleweight title when he faces WBC champion Christian Mbilli on Saturday. The bout marks the Mexican's first ring appearance in 13 months, since losing his undisputed 168-pound crown to Terence Crawford in September 2025.

The 36-year-old, who turned professional at 15, brings a record of 63 wins, three defeats and two draws into a career now in its 21st year. Despite his legacy and reported earnings of $170 million in 2026, Alvarez insists motivation remains high. "Boxing makes me feel alive," he told Ariel Helwani's Uncrowned show. "I don't need anything ... but I still love boxing."

Alvarez is under contract with Riyadh Season for one more fight after Saturday, and he has spoken of wanting "three or four" more bouts before retiring. Among his remaining goals are a rematch with Crawford and a farewell event in Mexico City, ideally at Estadio Azteca. "I want my last fight to be in Mexico," he told ESPN.

The fight's build-up has included travel adjustments for some participants following recent security incidents in the kingdom, with several undercard boxers reported to have flown into Bahrain and driven to Riyadh. Broadcaster DAZN is expected to handle commentary remotely. Alvarez, however, arrived by private jet on October 26 and has not wavered. "I love to be here in Riyadh, and I'm excited to fight on Saturday and become a world champion once again," he said in a video posted by Turki Alalshikh.

A victory over the younger Mbilli could set up a major event in 2027, while a loss might accelerate retirement plans. For now, Alvarez is focused only on the challenge ahead.