Christian Mbilli backed to beat Canelo Alvarez

Former world champion Paulie Malignaggi has backed Christian Mbilli to beat Canelo Alvarez when the super-middleweights meet in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Saturday, October 31. Mbilli is set to make the first defence of his WBC world title.

Malignaggi questions Canelo's ability to handle the pace

Malignaggi considers Alvarez the more skilled boxer, but doubts the 36-year-old can keep up with Mbilli’s usual intensity over 12 rounds. He pointed to Alvarez’s difficulty handling a fast pace even in his prime and said that kind of fight could work against him now.

Mbilli is known for fighting at a high tempo. Malignaggi’s view is that the Frenchman could wear Alvarez down by outworking him across the distance, rather than matching him skill for skill.

Mbilli's title and recent activity

Mbilli was elevated from interim to full WBC champion in December, after Terence Crawford announced his retirement and gave up the undisputed title he had won by defeating Alvarez. The promotion came a few months after Mbilli fought Lester Martinez to a 10-round draw.

Crawford’s win over Alvarez had already challenged the belief that the Mexican’s physical advantages would be decisive. Crawford moved up two weight classes and earned a unanimous decision in his first fight at 168 pounds. That result also fueled questions about Alvarez’s form after 68 professional bouts.

Both Alvarez and Mbilli have been out of the ring for more than a year, according to the report. Malignaggi said Mbilli’s ability to sustain his customary pace will be worth watching. Their 12-round bout is scheduled for later today in Riyadh, with the WBC title on the line.