The next chapter in Canelo Álvarez’s storied career appears to be taking shape in the Saudi Arabian capital. Multiple reports indicate that the Mexican superstar is finalizing a deal to defend his WBC super middleweight title against rising contender Christian Mbilli, with the fight targeted for September in Riyadh. The planned event would headline a card that, according to Mexican media, will feature a quartet of Mexican fighters — a nod to Independence Day weekend and the sport’s deep roots in that country.
Mbilli, a relentless pressure fighter who has steadily climbed the rankings, represents a fresh test for Canelo, who at 34 still commands the division. The venue, likely part of Saudi Arabia’s ongoing push to host marquee boxing, adds a layer of spectacle, but it’s the backlash from a familiar voice that is already generating headlines.
Oscar De La Hoya, the Hall of Famer turned promoter and frequent Canelo critic, did not hold back. He labeled the Mbilli fight another example of Canelo “taking the money and running,” and insisted that the Guadalajara native’s career is in decline. Speaking to reporters, De La Hoya even offered a backhanded remark — “No lo culpo” (I don’t blame him) — suggesting that from a business perspective, Canelo is simply cashing in while he still can. The comments reignite a long‑running feud between the two, and they immediately became fuel for debate among fans.
What makes the matchup particularly intriguing is the backdrop of Canelo’s recent form. After dominant years that saw him unify titles at 168 pounds and chase legacy-defining fights against the likes of Gennadiy Golovkin and Dmitry Bivol, his 2023 campaign felt transitional. A victory over Jermell Charlo and a decision over Jaime Munguía kept his winning streak alive, but critics argue the competition has been carefully selected. Mbilli, though less famous, presents a legitimate threat — he’s bigger, younger, and throws a high volume of punches that could test Canelo’s stamina.
The planned September show in Riyadh is expected to be confirmed soon, adding to Saudi Arabia’s growing portfolio of elite boxing events. As the news spreads, ‘canelo álvarez’ has surged as a top search term, while the simple ‘canelo’ keyword alone sparks immediate engagement across platforms. That digital buzz mirrors the divided opinions in the sport — between those who see a smart business move and those who, like De La Hoya, detect a fading champion.