The highly anticipated October 31 showdown between Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez and WBC super-middleweight champion Christian Mbilli has faced mounting speculation in recent weeks, with growing concerns that the entire card could be pulled – or at least moved – from Saudi Arabia.
The fight marks Canelo’s return to the ring following his loss to Terence Craford last September – just his third defeat of his career.
He has landed an immediate shot at one of his old belts against Mbilli, who was elevated from interim to full champion when Crawford retired.
Set to headline the Mexico vs The World card at The Venue in Riyadh, the bout has been overshadowed in recent weeks by escalating regional hostilities, including drone strikes near the Saudi capital by Houthi rebels. Today, King Khalid airport was struck again.
The U.S. Mission in Saudi Arabia issued a security alert on October 5. The advisory cautioned American citizens to remain vigilant, immediately sparking rumours across the boxing world that the event could be abruptly relocated to Las Vegas in November.
There has been silence on the issue from the promotion, and even an official undercard announcement last week.
Today, boxing powerbroker Turki Alalshikh posted online to confirm that Canelo still wants the event to go ahead.
“Canelo reached out and told me he’ll still fight in Riyadh this October, no matter what happens.
“He fears nothing. My country is home to the two Holy Mosques, land of peace, safety, rich civilization, deep history, and kind-hearted people.
“Thank you to everyone who checked in and showed support. Hard times reveal true friends.”
Whether or not this encourages fans remains to be seen, with an increasing number still calling for the fight to be moved.
The decision locks in what is arguably the most crucial fight of Canelo’s recent career. After undergoing elbow surgery early this year, it is a must-win for Alvarez, who has hopes of becoming undisputed once more before retiring.
