Riyadh: Chairman of the General Entertainment Authority (GEA) and President of the Saudi Boxing Federation Turki Alalshikh announced the highly anticipated 'Mexico vs The World' bout between Mexican superstar Canelo lvarez and French WBC super-middleweight world champion Christian Mbilli, set to take place in Riyadh on September 12, as part of another major global event reflecting Riyadh Season's growing position on the international sports stage.
According to Saudi Press Agency, the announcement coincided with a press conference held on Saturday at the Grand Egyptian Museum in Egypt, which featured the first official media appearance and face-off between Canelo lvarez and Christian Mbilli, amid significant media presence and growing anticipation surrounding the fight.
Alalshikh expressed his delight at hosting another major boxing event in Riyadh, noting that Saudi Arabia has become a leading destination for the biggest global boxing matches and sporting events, thanks to the significant support received by the Kingdom's entertainment sector. He also expressed his anticipation for delivering an exceptional night for boxing fans around the world and witnessing a spectacular showdown between Canelo lvarez and Christian Mbilli, reflecting the global popularity of both fighters and Riyadh's leading status in hosting world-class sporting and entertainment events.
Canelo lvarez said: 'After so many years in this sport, my motivation is still the same: to challenge myself, represent Mexico, and continue building my legacy. 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 September 12 in Riyadh, we begin a new chapter with the same discipline, ambition, and vision that has carried me throughout my career.'
Christian Mbilli said: 'My last fight was the fight of the year. In September, against Canelo lvarez, it will be the fight of the decade. And when the fight is over, the world will witness a historic victory for me.'
The fight is part of a series of major international events hosted in Riyadh, reinforcing Saudi Arabia's position as a leading global destination for sports and entertainment while continuing to attract the world's biggest names and championships across various fields.
