The Canelo Álvarez vs. Christian Mbilli card risks losing a world championship contest—and potentially the entire event—amid escalating travel complications stemming from conflict in the Middle East.
Earlier this month, access to Saudi Arabia was disrupted when King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh came under attack, leaving one person dead and 11 civilians injured. The incident cast serious doubt on whether the event, scheduled for next Saturday in Riyadh, could proceed as planned.
Despite mounting safety and logistical concerns, the main event remains intact: Mbilli is still expected to defend his WBC super-middleweight title against the Mexican superstar.
However, the undercard has suffered a significant blow. According to boxing journalist Dan Rafael, contender Lindolfo Delgado—slated to face Arthur Biyarslanov for the vacant IBF super-lightweight title—is unlikely to make the trip. The title was vacated by Richardson Hitchins following a weight-related withdrawal from a bout against Oscar Duarte earlier this year.
Rafael reported on social media that neither Delgado nor his head trainer, Robert Garcia, have finalized travel arrangements for fight week.
“Per source, Lindolfo Delgado, trainer Robert Garcia and the team remain in the US and don’t have travel booked for his vacant IBF 140[lb] title fight [against] Arthur Biyarslanov. Biyarslanov is already [in Riyadh]. Will the fight happen? I was told ‘probably not’.”
NEWS: Per source, Lindolfo Delgado, trainer Robert Garcia & the team remain in the US & don’t have travel booked for his vacant IBF 140 title fight vs. Artur Biyarslanov next Saturday on #CaneloMbilli card in Riyadh. Biyarslanov is already there. Will the fight happen? I was told…
— Dan Rafael (@DanRafael1) October 24, 2026
Garcia has publicly voiced his apprehension regarding the event, concerns shared by numerous prominent figures within the sport.
It remains unclear whether Biyarslanov will be offered a replacement opponent or if the card can proceed at all. Meanwhile, promotional efforts for Álvarez’s return continue unabated.
Also Read
- NFL Week 7 Preview: Key Matchups and Prediction Markets for Sunday’s Slate
- Pakistan Stun England with Improbable Last-Wicket Victory in Lahore
- Here’s how to watch Rams vs. Raiders for free in Week 7: Time, livestream
- Carrick Admits ‘Sadness’ Over Manchester United Plight Following Heavy Bournemouth Defeat