Alvarez Challenges Mbilli for WBC Title After 13-Month Layoff
The Mexican boxer faces odds of 3-to-1 in Riyadh, aiming to reclaim the belt he lost to Terence Crawford in 2025.
By Carmen Wojcik ·
Boxing has long centered on Canelo Alvarez, but his status as the sport's primary draw faces a direct test this Saturday. The 36-year-old Mexican fighter will challenge Christian Mbilli for the WBC super middleweight title inside Kingdom Arena in Riyadh.
Alvarez, who holds a record of 63 wins, three losses, and two draws with 39 knockouts, returns to the ring after a 13-month absence. The layoff followed elbow surgery that interrupted his preparation. He seeks the title he lost via unanimous decision to Terence Crawford in 2025, a bout that occurred just two weeks before Crawford turned 38.
Betting markets list Alvarez as the favorite, with odds set as high as 3-to-1 against Mbilli. Mbilli is a 31-year-old native of Cameroon who fights out of Montreal. His record stands at 29 wins, one loss, and one draw, with 24 of his victories coming by stoppage.
During a pre-fight media session produced by DAZN last month, the two fighters addressed questions regarding Alvarez's age and recent form. Alvarez denied any doubt about his current ability, stating, "No, I'm very good." Mbilli, however, acknowledged the age gap while expressing respect for his opponent's power. "Yes, [Alvarez] is old now, but he is still very dangerous," Mbilli said.
Alvarez reacted to the comment with a smile and a declaration of his durability. "He's going to find out," Alvarez said. "Not even if I am 50 years old, he can't beat me. It's just different levels."
Alvarez's recent career trajectory shows a gradual decline from his 2022 peak. He lost to Dmitry Bivol in May 2022, his first defeat in nine years. Since then, he has won four consecutive fights, all by decision. These victories include bouts against Jermell Charlo, William Scull, Jaime Munguia, and Edgar Berlanga, extending his knockout drought.
Mbilli brings an aggressive style that contrasts with Alvarez's current tendency to fight on the outside. Last September, Mbilli drew with Lester Martinez in a high-volume bout that critics noted lacked technical defense. Alvarez believes Mbilli's forward pressure suits his counter-punching abilities. "I think his style is perfect for me to go against and will make for a great fight," Alvarez said during his training camp in Spain.
