'Canelo' Alvarez wins back WBC title from Mbilli in Riyadh
RIYADH, (Saudi Arabia): Mexican veteran Saul “Canelo” Alvarez produced a commanding performance to defeat French fighter Christian Mbilli and regain his WBC super middleweight title in an emotional victory in Saudi Arabia.
In Riyadh, Mexico's seasoned Saul Canelo Alvarez demonstrated a strong performance, defeating French fighter Christian Mbilli and reclaiming his WBC super middleweight title through a 12-round decision. The fight, which took place despite escalating tensions between Saudi Arabia and Yemen's Houthi movement, was initially a closely contested match.
However, the 36-year-old Mexican fighter, who was making his return to the ring following his defeat by American Terence Crawford in September 2025, became increasingly dominant in the latter stages of the bout. The judges scored the contest 115-112, 116-111, and 117-110 in favor of Alvarez. The Mexican superstar expressed his disbelief and emotions upon receiving the belt, stating, "It's so difficult to explain, it's so difficult to explain.
It feels like my first title. Now, after 20, 21 years as a professional — 16 years ago, I won my first title. Now I won the title again." The victory added another world title to Canelo's extensive list, spanning from light-middleweight to light-heavyweight.
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- Canelo Alvarez vs. Christian Mbilli LIVE round-by-round updates sports.yahoo.com
