Oscar De La Hoya has criticized Canelo Alvarez for remaining committed to his October 31 fight against Christian Mbilli in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, despite growing security concerns linked to regional hostilities.
The former world champion believes the financial interests surrounding the event shouldn’t come before the safety of fighters, staff and spectators.
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Speaking on his Clap Back Thursdays segment, De La Hoya directed his frustration at Alvarez, Turki Alalshikh and event organizer SELA.
His comments followed reports of deadly attacks involving Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport, prompting questions about whether the city can safely host a major international sporting event.
Alalshikh has maintained that the fight will go ahead as scheduled, claiming Alvarez personally contacted him to confirm his commitment.
However, De La Hoya believes the Mexican superstar’s willingness to compete doesn’t address the potential dangers facing everyone else travelling to Saudi Arabia.
“He says Canelo has no fear. Well, Canelo might not have any fear because he’s flying into a private airport,” said De La Hoya.
“But what about everyone else associated with the event? They’re scared sh*tless. How is this event not cancelled? It’s a f**king enormous safety concern.”
De La Hoya questions safety as Riyadh sporting events face disruption
De La Hoya said he wouldn’t travel to a conflict zone under the same circumstances and called on organizers to consider relocating the contest.
He pointed to the postponement of Riyadh’s Six Kings Slam tennis exhibition, which was moved from October to December, as an example of how sporting schedules can change when circumstances warrant reconsideration.
He also accused Alalshikh and SELA of exerting excessive influence over boxing media.
Those allegations remain De La Hoya’s claims, and his longstanding disagreements with Alvarez and Saudi boxing officials provide important context for his latest remarks.
Nevertheless, the safety debate goes beyond the headline fighters. Undercard boxers, trainers, cutmen, production crews, journalists and spectators all have different travel arrangements and security needs.
While a superstar might have access to private transport and additional protection, other participants may have fewer options if conditions deteriorate.
Fans could also face significant financial losses if travel plans are disrupted, particularly after paying for flights, accommodation and tickets.
These practical concerns add another dimension to De La Hoya’s argument that organizers should carefully assess the risks before proceeding.
Alvarez has been working towards his return following his September 2025 defeat to Terence Crawford and subsequent elbow surgery.
A matchup with Mbilli would offer him an opportunity to re-enter the super middleweight title picture, while Mbilli would receive a major platform against one of boxing’s biggest names.
However, the sporting significance of the contest hasn’t removed the uncertainty surrounding its location. De La Hoya believes organizers should prioritize human safety over the substantial financial interests involved.
As fight night approaches, attention remains focused on whether the event will proceed as planned or whether organisers will reconsider their arrangements.