Canelo Alvarez Risks No 2026 Fight Unless Mbilli Bout Leaves Riyadh

Canelo Alvarez reportedly risks not fighting at all in 2026 unless his WBC super middleweight title challenge against Christian Mbilli moves out of Riyadh. The bout was originally scheduled for October 31 but is facing a possible postponement to December.

The fight is untenable in Riyadh and must move to another venue following deadly attacks on King Khalid International Airport. Oscar De La Hoya said of The Canelo vs. Mbilli event, “So do the right thing and move this event.”

The fight between Canelo Alvarez and Christian Mbilli needs a new home rather than simply a new date under current circumstances. Reportedly, calls were made for Turki Alalshikh to cancel the Riyadh event on October 11, with the bout potentially taking place elsewhere.

Oscar De La Hoya called for the event to be moved during his latest Clap Back, adding pressure on Turki Alalshikh and Canelo Alvarez. De La Hoya said of Saudi organizers and safety: “You spend billions of dollars trying to convince everyone it’s totally safe to travel to Riyadh, and then this s*** happens. Stop pushing your agenda on people. Value human life and safety over your financial interests.”

Turki Alalshikh claimed that Canelo Alvarez intends to fight in Saudi Arabia despite reported attacks. Alalshikh asserted that the Mexican personally assured him he would proceed regardless of circumstances.

Canelo Alvarez has not fought since losing his undisputed championship to Terence Crawford in September 2025. Christian Mbilli is waiting for his opportunity to defend the WBC title against Canelo Alvarez.

Las Vegas had been considered as a potential alternative venue if Riyadh became unavailable, although no replacement venue has been confirmed. Mexico warned its citizens about areas surrounding Saudi airports, including the airport serving the city where Canelo Alvarez is scheduled to compete.

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