Canelo Álvarez intends to go ahead with his world title fight in Riyadh on October 31 despite deadly attacks on airports and infrastructure in Saudi Arabia, according to Saudi official Turki al-Sheikh.
Key facts
- Canelo Álvarez is slated to challenge unbeaten Christian Mbilli for the WBC super-middleweight title in Riyadh on 31 October.
- Saudi official Turki al-Sheikh says Álvarez 'fears nothing' and will proceed with the fight.
- A missile strike on Riyadh's main international airport killed at least 12 people and wounded more than 300.
- The bout follows Álvarez's defeat by Crawford, with the Mexican seeking redemption.
Canelo Álvarez intends to go ahead with his world title fight in Saudi Arabia later this month despite a series of deadly attacks on airports and other infrastructure in the kingdom, according to Turki al-Sheikh, the Saudi official who has become one of boxing’s most influential power brokers.
The Mexican superstar is slated to challenge the unbeaten Christian Mbilli for the WBC super-middleweight title in Riyadh on 31 October, according to the Guardian. The scheduled bout comes three weeks after a missile strike on the Saudi capital’s main international airport.
That strike, which took place on Saturday, killed at least 12 people and wounded more than 300, the Guardian reported. The attacks have targeted airports and other infrastructure in the kingdom.
Al-Sheikh indicated that Álvarez ‘fears nothing’ and will fight as planned despite the security concerns raised by the recent violence.
For Álvarez, the contest represents a chance at redemption. The Mexican is seeking to recover after his defeat by Crawford, the Guardian noted.
Mbilli enters the fight unbeaten, putting his record on the line against one of boxing’s biggest names in a high-profile card staged in Riyadh.
Why it matters
The decision to proceed with a major sporting event weeks after deadly attacks highlights Saudi Arabia's continued push to host elite boxing despite regional security risks. It also underscores Turki al-Sheikh's growing influence over the sport and the stakes for Álvarez as he seeks to rebuild his career.
Frequently asked questions
When and where is the Canelo Álvarez fight scheduled?
The fight is scheduled for 31 October in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, according to the Guardian.
Who is Canelo Álvarez fighting?
Álvarez is slated to challenge the unbeaten Christian Mbilli for the WBC super-middleweight title.
What happened at the Riyadh airport?
A missile strike on Riyadh's main international airport killed at least 12 people and wounded more than 300, the Guardian reported.