French boxer Christian Mbilli has declared his determination to defeat Mexican superstar Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez when they meet in a highly anticipated WBC super-middleweight championship contest in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Saturday, October 31.
The 31-year-old champion expressed confidence ahead of the showdown, insisting that he is fully prepared to overcome one of boxing's most accomplished fighters. Although he acknowledged Alvarez's achievements and experience, Mbilli believes the contest will provide an opportunity to make a major statement on the international stage.
Mbilli said he was eager to enter the ring and demonstrate his abilities, adding that he intends to leave Saudi Arabia with his championship belt intact. He also promised an unexpected performance against the Mexican veteran.
The French-Cameroonian fighter secured the interim WBC super-middleweight championship in June 2025 after stopping Poland's Maciej Sulecki by knockout. He was subsequently elevated to full champion in January 2026 after the title became vacant following Terence Crawford's departure from the division.
For Alvarez, the encounter represents an opportunity to reclaim a world championship after losing his super-middleweight titles to American Terence Crawford in September 2025. The 36-year-old Mexican enters the contest as the challenger for the first time since 2022, despite an impressive professional record of 63 victories, including 39 knockouts, three defeats and two draws.
Alvarez has made it clear that he remains determined to return to the top of the division. He acknowledged his new position as the challenger but insisted that his ambition to become champion again has not diminished.
The contest will also mark an important moment for Mbilli, who faces the challenge of defending his first full WBC world championship against an opponent with extensive experience at the highest level of professional boxing.
Despite uncertainty surrounding the event because of security concerns in Saudi Arabia, including reported drone and missile attacks, organisers have maintained that the fight will proceed as scheduled. The bout is expected to attract considerable international attention, with both boxers seeking a significant victory for different reasons.
For Mbilli, defeating Alvarez would strengthen his position among the leading fighters in the super-middleweight division. Meanwhile, the Mexican veteran will be hoping to reclaim the championship and demonstrate that he remains a major force in world boxing.
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