LAS VEGAS, NV – Canelo Alvarez, boxing’s top star, has opted for an unexpected change in direction by finalizing a four-fight deal with Riyadh Season in Saudi Arabia. This decision comes as a surprise to many, as Alvarez was initially set to face off against Jake Paul in May in Las Vegas. The deal with Riyadh Season effectively ends the possibility of the novelty fight with Paul and shifts the location of Canelo’s next bout to Riyadh.
Alvarez’s decision to forego the fight with Paul in favor of a deal with Riyadh Season was influenced by the chairman of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority, Turki Alalshikh. The announcement of the new deal has left boxing fans shocked and intrigued by the sudden turn of events. Despite the initial plans for the Paul fight, Alvarez expressed his preference for facing “real fighters.”
As part of the four-fight deal, Alvarez will have his first bout in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia’s capital. The first fight is scheduled for May 4, with two potential opponents being considered: Jermall Charlo and Bruno Surace. Charlo, whose twin brother suffered a defeat against Alvarez in 2023, and Surace, known for his upset victory in December, present intriguing challenges for Alvarez.
The May fight in Riyadh is expected to serve as a tune-up for Alvarez’s upcoming megafight against Terence Crawford in September at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. Crawford, a formidable opponent and ESPN’s No. 2 pound-for-pound boxer, promises to test Alvarez in the ring. The anticipation for these matchups continues to grow as the boxing world eagerly awaits the showdowns.