Canelo Reclaims WBC Crown With Unanimous Win Over Mbilli

Canelo Alvarez is a world champion again. The Mexican star reclaimed the WBC super-middleweight title on Saturday night in Riyadh, beating previously unbeaten champion Christian Mbilli by unanimous decision at the Kingdom Arena on DAZN pay-per-view. The judges scored the 12-round contest 115-112, 116-111 and 117-110, all in Alvarez's favour. Thirteen months after losing his undisputed crown to Terence Crawford, Alvarez returned from the longest layoff of his career and took control in the second half with his counterpunching and elusiveness. Mbilli, who had never lost as a professional, pressed forward with his usual ferocity but found Alvarez difficult to hit cleanly, and his night grew harder in the eighth round when he lost a point for a shot to the back of the head after Alvarez complained to the referee. From rounds nine to 12, Alvarez was in cruise control, picking his moments and inviting Mbilli on before answering with sharp counters. Mbilli landed his best right hand of the fight in the final round but could not follow it up, and Alvarez finished the contest wanting to exchange as the final bell confirmed a clear and deserved victory. The win restores Alvarez to the top of the 168-pound division and sets up a fascinating winter for one of boxing's biggest names.