Sports

Canelo Alvarez Wins 12‑Round Decision to Regain WBC Super Middleweight Title in Riyadh

By AFP

Saul "Canelo" Alvarez won a 12‑round decision over French fighter Christian Mbilli to reclaim the WBC super middleweight title in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The 36‑year‑old Mexican returned to the ring for the first time since his loss to Terence Crawford in September 2025, which ended his reign as holder of the division’s four major titles. Mbilli, 31, had been elevated to titleholder in January. The judges scored the bout 115‑112, 116‑111 and 117‑110 in favour of Alvarez. After the fight, Alvarez said, "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." He added that the win extends his collection of world titles from light middleweight to light heavyweight over a 20‑year career. The fight proceeded despite escalating conflict between Saudi Arabia and Yemen’s Houthis, with several other sporting events cancelled following Houthi drone and missile attacks on the kingdom. Alvarez described the bout as a tactical battle that turned into a convincing victory for him, noting that he began to dictate the fight from the seventh round onward. He thanked his family, who were watching from afar for the first time, for their support. The match was held in Riyadh on Sunday.