Canelo Álvarez to Fight in Saudi Arabia: Schedule and Potential Opponents
Saúl ‘Canelo’ Álvarez is set to embark on a new chapter in his boxing career, sealing a multi-million dollar deal with Sheikh Turki Alalshikh to fight four times over the next two years, with three bouts taking place in Saudi Arabia. This marks a significant shift for the Mexican champion, as Riyadh becomes the stage for some of his most anticipated fights, moving away from his traditional Las Vegas appearances.
A New Home for Canelo
According to Ring Magazine, Canelo will maintain his September fight in the United States, but the rest of his scheduled bouts will take place in Saudi Arabia. His roadmap for the next two years includes:
- May 2025 – Fight in Riyadh
- September 2025 – Fight in Las Vegas
- February 2026 – Fight in Riyadh
- October 2026 – Fight in Riyadh
Who Will Canelo Face in 2025 and 2026?
While no official announcements have been made regarding his opponents, several names are in contention according to various sources. Possible matchups include:
- May 2025 (Riyadh): Jermall Charlo or Bruno Surace
- September 2025 (Las Vegas): Terence Crawford – one of the most highly anticipated fights in boxing
- February 2026 (Riyadh): Dmitry Bivol, Hamzah Sheeraz, or Chris Eubank Jr.
- October 2026 (Riyadh): Opponent to be determined
The biggest potential showdown is a super fight against Terence Crawford, a multiple-division world champion widely regarded as one of the pound-for-pound best fighters. Additionally, a rematch with Dmitry Bivol remains a compelling option, following Canelo’s defeat to the Russian in 2022.
![Canelo Álvarez.](https://assets-us-01.kc-usercontent.com:443/31dbcbc6-da4c-0033-328a-d7621d0fa726/04dddc7f-24b8-4ee6-8f81-9fe543603210/Canelo%20Alvarez%20Crawford.png?ver=12-01-2025?w=3840&q=75)