By Felix Jesus Mendoza
The expectation for the next confrontation between Saúl “Canelo” Álvarez and Christian Mbilli continues to grow as the date of September 12 approaches. The fight, which will take place in Saudi Arabia, represents the opportunity for the African fighter to consolidate himself at the top of the 168-pound division, while the Mexican seeks to regain prominence after his latest results.
In recent statements to Ring Magazine, Christian Mbilli shared his perspective on his opponent’s current status.
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The challenger indicated that, in his opinion, Time has begun to influence the performance of the Mexican championa factor that he intends to capitalize on during the contest.
“Canelo is already very old. He is not the same Canelo from 10 years ago or five years ago”the boxer pointed out to the specialized media.
The constant pressure strategy
The preparation of Christian Mbilli has focused on maintaining a hitting frequency high and constant pressure on the ringaspects that allowed him to stand out in his 2025 fight against Lester Martínez. The fighter considers that this style of combat will be the basic component to overcome the defense of Álvarez, who continues to be recognized as one of the greatest exponents of real boxing.
CANELO IS HERE 🤩
Canelo Alvarez has landed in Egypt sooner than Oleksandr Usyk vs Rico Verhoeven and the first press conference for his fight against Christian Mbilli 🇪🇬
Glory in Giza | Would possibly per chance twenty third | LIVE on DAZN 🥊 pic.twitter.com/RP8nrd1IL7
— Ring Magazine (@ringmagazine) Would possibly per chance 21, 2026
Regarding this tactic, Christian Mbilli He explained to Ring Magazine his doubts regarding physical resistance that the Mexican can show at this stage of his professional career.
“I don’t know if right now he can withstand my pressure and my punches because I throw a lot of punches, a lot of pressure, I put a lot of energy,” The athlete detailed, insisting that the athlete’s natural wear and tear could play as he preferred during the twelve rounds.
A confrontation at the decisive moment
Despite criticism about his age, the challenger admitted that the Mexican retains abilities that keep him in the elite of the sport. “It’s unheard of. This guy has been a professional since he was 15. He is no longer the same Canelo, but he is still dangerous. He is still a great fighter”he acknowledged Christian Mbilli.
Finally, the fighter reaffirmed his confidence in obtaining a favorable result thanks to the opportunity that this match offers him.
The strategy of Christian Mbilli seeks to close the chapter of Mexican dominance in the category, taking advantage of the window of time that the African identifies as the stage of late maturity of the four-division monarch.
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