Sebastian Fundora Refuses to Fight in Saudi Arabia Amid Rising Safety Concerns Over Canelo Alvarez Bout
As missile strikes continue to target Riyadh, WBC super welterweight champion Sebastian Fundora finds it baffling that discussions are still ongoing about moving Canelo Alvarez's fight scheduled for October 31 out of Saudi Arabia. "This goes far beyond boxing," Fundora commented.
Saudi Arabia’s Boxing Spotlight Dimmed by Conflict
Saudi Arabia had firmly positioned itself as a prime location for major boxing matches through 2023 and 2024, hosting bouts such as Tyson Fury vs. Oleksandr Usyk twice and the two fights between Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol. Although fewer events have taken place there in 2026, Alvarez is set to defend his WBC super middleweight title against Christian Mbilli in Riyadh, despite ongoing missile attacks possibly occurring nearby during the event.
Missile Attacks and Disruptions
The militant group Ansar Allah, known as the Houthis, has launched assaults on airports, oil installations, and the East-West pipeline in Riyadh recently. These attacks have disturbed daily life and business operations. The country's annual Six Kings Slam tennis tournament was postponed from late October to late December due to logistical complications related to the unrest.
Debate Over Alvarez Fight Postponement
Speculation remains over whether the Alvarez vs. Mbilli fight will be called off. Industry insiders suggest that canceling could mean the Saudi organizers would owe Alvarez over $50 million, a challenging sum given the kingdom's current political tensions and financial constraints. Both sides seem hesitant to make the first move, resulting in a stalemate.
Fundora Speaks Out on Fighting in Saudi Arabia
On The Ariel Helwani Show, Fundora shared why he has avoided fighting in Saudi Arabia. Ahead of defending his title against Ermal Hadribeaj, he explained, "There’s a reason I haven't fought there. Being American, I just wouldn’t feel safe." He acknowledged that while other fighters choose to take those opportunities, they don't feel realistic to him.
Despite receiving fight offers from Saudi Arabia, Fundora declined, even if the pay was higher. "Absolutely, they’ve offered me fights there," he said, "but with my mother being a veteran and considering all the politics, it just isn’t comfortable. This situation is way bigger than boxing." He added that he would also avoid a potential showdown with pound-for-pound star Jaron 'Boots' Ennis in Saudi Arabia if it were proposed.
