Saudi Arabia’s current focus seems to be on heavyweights, but could Canelo Alvarez be the next big attraction for the country? While Canelo may not possess the physical size that typically appeals to Saudis, he enjoys immense popularity among American fans who are eager to see him face off against Anthony Joshua.
(Photo Credit: Esther Lin & Ryan Hafey/Premier Boxing Champions)
If Saudi Arabia is looking to add another major star who resonates with fans in the United States and the United Kingdom, Canelo would be the ideal choice for their event.
While Saudis are pleased with the attention given to their fighters Tyson Fury and Joshua, American fans are more interested in Canelo than in those two heavyweight boxers.
Despite Joshua’s multiple losses, which have led to some viewing him as overhyped, American fans still see him as a significant draw. However, if promoter Eddie Hearn were to acknowledge that Joshua needs to face tougher opponents rather than softer ones, his popularity might decline further.
One highly anticipated fight by fans is Canelo vs. David Benavidez, and Saudi Arabia has the financial resources to make this bout a reality if they are willing to meet Alvarez’s asking price of $150-200 million.
“Saudis love heavyweights.”
Boxing expert Paulie Malignaggi noted, “Saudis love heavyweights. Canelo is unquestionably the biggest star in boxing. With Saudi Arabia already hosting Joshua, the addition of Canelo, another prominent figure in the sport, would be a significant move for them. Do you think it’s feasible?” Malignaggi shared with Probox TV’s YouTube channel.
If Saudi Arabia remains disinterested in the North American audience, they may opt to overlook Canelo and continue to focus primarily on British heavyweights like Joshua and Fury.
The Saudis could proceed with lackluster PPV events in the U.S. and concentrate solely on the heavyweight division, potentially neglecting the thriving 135-, 140-, and 168-pound weight classes that interest American fans more than heavyweights.
“This is a significant show of ego, and they have the financial backing to support it. They are committed to the division they prefer to follow,” Malignaggi stated. “Canelo may not fit the physical profile they typically favor. They have been investing substantial sums of money thus far, and Canelo’s exceptional performance at the box office speaks for itself. When you consider the sales figures of Ngannou vs. AJ, which were only 4,500 PPV in the U.S., it’s evident that they are not concerned about catering to the American audience with convenient viewing times or adjusting the PPV pricing. Their focus is on their own agenda, driven by ego,” Malignaggi elaborated.
If Saudi Arabia prioritizes prestige over financial gain and viewership figures, they may opt not to bring Canelo to their country for an event, potentially alienating American fans who are not as invested in Fury or Joshua.
Heavyweight Renaissance or Competitive Ambitions?
“Saudi Arabia is striving to revitalize the heavyweight boxing scene,” stated Chris Algieri. “Are they aiming to unify the division or simply attract the most powerful contenders?”
“This poses a challenge because fighters may be hesitant to face each other if they can secure significant payouts in less demanding matchups. I’m not interested in taking on just any opponent at this moment,” Malignaggi commented.
“They are not troubled by their fighters losing. They create losers,” Algieri emphasized.
