On September 12 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Canelo vs Christian Mbilli is set to headline an event promoted by Canelo Promotions and Eye of the Tiger Management, in association with Riyadh Season. Mbilli’s WBC super middleweight title will be on the line, a belt he was elevated to following the non-payment of sanction fees by Terence Crawford. Looking ahead to Canelo-Mbilli, renowned trainer Robert Garcia has made his pick.
Canelo vs Christian Mbilli set for Riyadh clash
Alvarez (63-3-2, 39 KOs) was last seen in action, losing his undisputed status against Terence Crawford. The Mexican had limited success, with Crawford implementing the perfect game plan and winning the titles from Canelo.
Mbilli (29-0-1, 24 KOs) fought on the Canelo-Crawford undercard, a split draw against Lester Martinez. It was a highly entertaining fight, and shortly after, Crawford was stripped of the title he won against Canelo Alvarez for failing to honour a payment agreement with the sanctioning body. Crawford soon announced his retirement from the sport after being stripped, with many wondering what Canelo would do next.
When the fight was announced, both fighters spoke via a press release:
“After so many years in this sport, my motivation is still the same: to challenge myself, represent México, and continue building my legacy,” said Álvarez in the press release. “Mbilli is undefeated, and a great fighter, and I respect that. But my focus is always on my preparation, performance, and giving the fans another great night of boxing. On Sept. 12 in Riyadh, we begin a new chapter with the same discipline, ambition, and vision that has carried me throughout my career.”
“My last fight was the fight of the year,” said Mbilli in the same press release. “In September, against Canelo Álvarez, it will be the fight of the decade. And when the fight is over, the world will witness a historic victory for me.”
Robert Garcia makes his pick for Canelo vs Christian Mbilli
Speaking to YSM Sports Media about Canelo vs Christian Mbilli, Garcia revealed his pick for the bout:
“Mbilli’s tough, man. He had a really good fight with Lester [Martinez], and Lester’s also a great fighter, so it’ll be interesting to see how Canelo comes back after that beating he took [against Crawford].
“It’s a close fight; I’d still favour Canelo [over Mbilli], but it’s not going to be easy.”
Featured Image Credit:
DAZN Boxing