Algieri Warns of Security Risks on Canelo-Mbilli Card in Riyadh

Chris Algieri warned that security concerns and disrupted preparations in Riyadh could affect performances on the Saul “Canelo” Alvarez-Christian Mbilli card. The event is headlined by Saul “Canelo” Alvarez challenging Christian Mbilli for the WBC super middleweight title.

Algieri said that he believes it is not worth taking the extra risk of traveling to Riyadh when the danger is outside the ropes. “Money is great, but if you’re not around to spend it, what’s the point?” he said.

Event organizers SELA and Turki Alalshikh faced criticism for proceeding with the show despite security concerns in the region. Turki Alalshikh and Saul “Canelo” Alvarez made it clear that Saturday’s card will proceed as planned.

Several fighters arrived in Riyadh later than planned following journeys lasting more than 30 hours, disrupting their preparations. Algieri predicted that the psychological strain and reduced time to adjust to the time difference could lead to fighters missing weight or delivering underwhelming performances.

Algieri said, “When you’re forcing something to happen, you tend to not think about the fighters as athletes. You still have to perform.” Algieri stated that Christian Mbilli cannot back out of the fight because missing the opportunity to fight Saul “Canelo” Alvarez might mean he does not get the chance again. Algieri noted that Saul “Canelo” Alvarez could have postponed the card to two weeks later in Las Vegas, but other fighters do not have that option.

Riyadh has been subjected to Houthi missile and drone strikes in recent weeks. The attacks included a strike on the city’s airport that reportedly killed 13 people and injured 308 others.

Lindolfo Delgado opted not to travel to Saudi Arabia for his scheduled fight with Arthur Biyarslanov for the vacant IBF junior welterweight title on Sunday.

Should the Canelo-Mbilli card in Riyadh have been postponed given the security concerns Chris Algieri raised?