Canelo Alvarez Dismisses Security Worries and Retirement Rumors Ahead of Riyadh Bout

Saul “Canelo” Alvarez is set to challenge for the WBC super-middleweight title against Christian Mbilli in Riyadh, addressing concerns over security and speculation about his future in the sport. This marks Alvarez's return to the ring after a 13-month hiatus, his last fight being a loss of his undisputed 168lb crown to Terence Crawford in September 2025. Despite his decorated career and significant wealth, estimated at $170 million by Forbes in 2026, placing him second among the highest-paid athletes, the Mexican boxer is eager to continue his career as it enters its 21st year.

Alvarez, now 36, turned professional at 15 and has amassed an impressive record of 63 wins, three losses, and two draws, a feat characteristic of a past era given the current trend of elite fighters competing only two or three times annually. His passion for boxing remains evident, encapsulated by his personal mantra, “no boxing, no life.” He expressed to Ariel Helwani’s Uncrowned show, “Boxing makes me feel alive. I was born for this. I really enjoy it. It’s hard to adapt yourself again [to different opponents], and the training camps are very hard, but I love that, and I enjoy it a lot.” He further stated, “I don’t need anything… I did everything in boxing already, and I’m good [financially]. But I still love boxing. When I fight, I always break records, and that’s the motivation for me. You need to do something in life. You need to keep your mind busy, motivated. Right now, my motivation is boxing.”

While Alvarez is in a position to retire, he is currently fulfilling a lucrative four-fight contract with Riyadh Season and Turki Alalshikh, with Saturday's bout being his third under this agreement. He has indicated a desire to have “three or four fights” left, aiming for a rematch with Crawford and a farewell fight at Mexico City's Estadio Azteca. “I want my last fight to be in Mexico,” he told ESPN, recalling the “incredible vibe” of Estadio Azteca during a World Cup match. A decisive win against Mbilli could pave the way for a major event in 2027, while a loss might hasten his retirement plans.

The decision to host the event in Riyadh has faced scrutiny in the US media due to recent Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia, which have resulted in casualties and injuries, prompting the US State Department to advise non-essential government employees and their families to leave the country. Despite these security concerns and the disruption to other sporting events like the Six Kings Slam tennis tournament and the Dakar Rally, Turki Alalshikh has affirmed the fight will proceed. Alalshikh posted on X, “Canelo reached out and told me he’ll still fight in Riyadh this October, no matter what happens, he fears nothing,” following an attack on Riyadh’s airport. While air travel remains uncertain, Alvarez arrived in Riyadh via private jet and was greeted by Oleksandr Usyk. Alvarez expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “I love to be here in Riyadh, and I’m excited to fight on Saturday and become a world champion once again.” However, some undercard fighters and crew members have opted for alternative travel arrangements, and broadcaster DAZN is expected to provide commentary remotely from London. Lindolfo Delgado is the only fighter to withdraw, citing safety concerns relayed by his trainer, Robert Garcia, who mentioned receiving daily missile alerts.

Alvarez remains steadfast in his commitment to the event and is confident in his ability to overcome Mbilli, an undefeated French-Cameroonian fighter known for his aggressive, front-foot style. Alvarez described Mbilli as a “champion and a very aggressive fighter” whose style “makes me excited because it’s good styles to make a good fight. Could be fight of the year.” This approach from Mbilli is expected to create an engaging contest, though Alvarez’s performance may be influenced by his layoff and previous elbow surgery.