Sebastian Fundora Refuses to Fight in Saudi Arabia Amid Rising Safety Concerns Around Canelo Alvarez’s Bout

As missile strikes continue targeting Riyadh, WBC super welterweight champion Sebastian Fundora expressed confusion over the ongoing debate about moving Canelo Alvarez's October 31 fight away from Saudi Arabia. “This is bigger than just boxing,” Fundora said.

Saudi Arabia's Growing Role and Risks in Boxing

Saudi Arabia made a significant impact on the boxing world in 2023 and 2024 by hosting some of the sport’s most notable events, including two Tyson Fury vs. Oleksandr Usyk fights and the back-to-back matchups between Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol.

Although fewer major boxing matches have taken place there in 2026, Canelo Alvarez plans to return to Riyadh for his super middleweight title defense against Christian Mbilli. Yet, with missile attacks possibly occurring within miles of the venue, safety concerns have escalated.

Ongoing Missile Attacks Disrupt Life and Sports Events

The militant group Ansar Allah, also known as the Houthis, has launched strikes on airports, oil fields, and pipelines in Riyadh recently. These assaults have caused serious disruptions to everyday life and business operations. For example, the kingdom's annual Six Kings Slam tennis tournament was delayed by two months due to logistical complications stemming from the situation.

Despite these risks, the Alvarez-Mbilli bout remains scheduled for October 31. Industry sources speculate that if Saudi Arabia canceled the fight, they would still be liable for Alvarez’s purse, reportedly over $50 million. Given the current political instability, the kingdom may be reluctant to postpone and face financial penalties, creating a standoff where neither side wants to give in first.

Fundora Shares His Position on Fighting in Saudi Arabia

On The Ariel Helwani Show, Fundora spoke candidly about why he has avoided fighting in Saudi Arabia. He emphasized feeling unsafe as an American and cited his personal connections, such as his mother being a military veteran, influencing his decision.

• Fundora on Offers: He confirmed receiving offers to fight in Saudi Arabia but rejected them due to discomfort and the larger political context.
• Prize Money Not Enough: Even with potentially higher pay, Fundora would not accept bouts there.
• Refusal to Fight Ennis There: He also mentioned he would decline a major showdown with pound-for-pound contender Jaron Boots Ennis if it were proposed in Saudi Arabia.

Fundora’s stance highlights the tension between lucrative opportunities and personal safety amid ongoing geopolitical conflicts affecting sports events in the region.