Teofimo Lopez Says Christian Mbilli Is Ideal Return Fight For Canelo Alvarez On September 12

Lopez believes Mbilli offers the right balance of risk and opportunity as Canelo returns from surgery and a lengthy layoff

Teofimo Lopez believes Christian Mbilli is the ideal opponent for Canelo Alvarez’s return in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Lopez says Mbilli presents a legitimate championship test while giving Canelo a suitable path back into title contention after elbow surgery and nearly a year out of the ring.

Canelo is scheduled to challenge WBC super middleweight champion Christian Mbilli on September 12 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Mbilli (28-0-1, 23 KOs) became the full WBC champion after Crawford retired and vacated the belt.

“I love this fight for Canelo. It’s a good brawl and a fun fight for Canelo. Overall, it’s a good return fight after his injuries.

“It would be good to have him get this good win, [against] a strong competitor,” said Teofimo Lopez to Ring Magazine.

Both fighters will enter the September 12 fight following lengthy layoffs. Mbilli has not fought since his draw with Lester Martinez on the undercard of Canelo’s fight against Crawford, while Alvarez will be making his first appearance since undergoing surgery.

Canelo views Mbilli as a legitimate test, but one that should suit Canelo’s style as he attempts to reclaim a world title at 168 pounds.

A victory for Alvarez would put him back in possession of the WBC belt and could move him toward further unification fights. Hamzah Sheeraz currently holds the WBO title after stopping Alem Begic in two rounds last month.

Share on Facebook

Post on X