Christian Mbilli is set to face Canelo Alvarez for the WBC super-middleweight title on September 12, 2026, in Riyadh. This matchup comes after Canelo’s loss to Terence Crawford in September 2025 and his subsequent elbow surgery.
Mbilli, who boasts an impressive record of 29 wins, 0 losses, and 1 draw, won the WBC Interim super-middleweight title in June 2025 and was elevated to full champion in January 2026. In contrast, Canelo’s record stands at 63 wins, 3 losses, and 2 draws.
The fight is expected to take place during Mexican Independence Day weekend, a time when Canelo often headlines major events. However, not everyone is excited about this matchup. David Benavidez voiced strong criticism, stating, “Nobody wants to see that sh*t.” He suggested that Canelo would have been better off fighting Diego Pacheco instead.
Canelo has historically drawn huge crowds; his last fight attracted around 70,000 fans. But there are concerns regarding whether this upcoming bout will capture the same level of interest among boxing fans.
This fight could mark a pivotal moment for both boxers. While Canelo aims to reclaim his stature after a setback, Mbilli seeks to solidify his place at the top of the division. Observers note that this event is crucial not just for titles but also for their respective legacies.
The boxing world will be watching closely as the date approaches. As Mike Coppinger reported: “BREAKING: Canelo Alvarez and Christian Mbilli have a done deal to fight in September in Riyadh for the WBC super middleweight championship.” This announcement has sparked conversations about what lies ahead for both fighters.
