Canelo Alvarez Reclaims WBC Super‑Middleweight Title in Riyadh

Canelo Alvarez delivered a commanding 12‑round performance to defeat French challenger Christian Mbilli and regain the WBC super‑middleweight title in Riyadh.

The 36‑year‑old Mexican veteran won a unanimous decision, with judges scoring the bout 115‑112, 116‑111 and 117‑110 in his favour.

Alvarez returned to the ring for the first time since his September 2025 loss to Terence Crawford, a defeat that ended his reign as holder of the division’s four major titles.

Mbilli, 31, had been elevated to champion in January and started the fight as a tight contest, but Alvarez took control in the second half.

After the decision, Alvarez struggled for words, saying, It’s so difficult to explain. It’s so difficult to explain. It’s something unbelievable. It feels like my first title, now, after 20, 21 years as a professional. Sixteen years ago, I won my first title. Now I won the title again.

The victory adds another world title to Alvarez’s collection, which spans from light‑middleweight to light‑heavyweight over a 20‑year career.

The event proceeded despite escalating conflict between Saudi Arabia and Yemen’s Houthis, whose recent drone and missile attacks have led to the cancellation of other sporting events.

Alvarez thanked his family, noting they were “watching me from afar today for the first time,” a subtle reference to the security concerns surrounding the fight.

With the belt back on his waist, Alvarez re‑established himself atop the super‑middleweight division.