Canelo Alvarez keeps career alive with vital win over Christian Mbilli

Canelo Alvarez claimed a crucial victory over Christian Mbilli on Saturday, returning from a 13-month layoff to reclaim the WBC super-middleweight title. Alvarez outpointed Mbilli, scoring 115-112, 116-111, and 117-110. The Mexican champion was more active than in recent fights, matching Mbilli's volume in some rounds. Mbilli, 31, showed his usual activity but allowed it to dip at times.

Canelo, 36, capitalized well, mixing in hard right hooks and uppercuts throughout the bout. After the fight, Canelo appeared emotional, regaining the super-middleweight gold after losing his undisputed title to Terence Crawford last year. Crawford had claimed all the major belts by outpointing Canelo before retiring from boxing in December.

Mbilli's interim WBC belt was upgraded to the official title after Crawford's retirement. However, Mbilli's first defense of the official title ended disappointingly with a loss to Canelo in Riyadh. The Yemen-aligned Houthis had attacked the Saudi city, injuring hundreds and killing over 20. Canelo delivered his post-fight statement at ANB Arena, expressing his pride and gratitude to his team.

He stated, "This feels like my first title, now after 21 years as a professional; 16 years ago I won my first title, now I won the title again. I'm so proud, so proud of my team. They made me the champion I am."