From Humiliation to True Honor: The Incredible Odyssey of Canelo Álvarez in Saudi Arabia
What seemed like a triumphant arrival for Saúl “Canelo” Álvarez turned into an unexpected diplomatic battleground. Landing in Riyadh on April 14, 2025, for his unification fight against William Scull, the Mexican champion experienced firsthand a humiliating reception that shook the sports world.
Upon descending from his private jet, Canelo was met coldly by a sector of the local organization. The situation worsened at the luxurious Four Seasons Hotel, where his reservation was mysteriously altered, and his access to the private gym was denied. The final straw came when, in the hotel lobby, Sheikh Khalid bin Abdullah Alsud publicly snubbed his greeting and arrogantly informed him that his fight had been downgraded to a secondary event in favor of a Tyson Fury exhibition.
Tension quickly escalated. With a calmness that only a seasoned veteran of the ring could maintain, Canelo refused to fall into provocation. While his team considered the possibility of a legal complaint, the Mexican champion chose the path of serenity: adapting and continuing to train even in the hotel gardens, improvising his physical preparation amidst adversity.
What no one expected was that the public disrespect towards Canelo would resonate far beyond the boxing ring. The video of the incident went viral within hours, igniting social media and sparking a wave of international support. Mexico, united like never before, turned the hashtag #OrgulloCanelo into a worldwide trend. Sports personalities, politicians, and millions of fans demanded respect for their champion.
The pressure was so intense that it led to direct intervention from the Saudi royal family. Almost cinematographically, Canelo was invited to a private dinner with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. In a gesture laden with symbolism, the prince not only personally apologized but also presented Canelo with a traditional “bist” as a sign of honor—a privilege reserved for the highest guests of the kingdom.
With his dignity intact, Canelo recorded an emotional video where, without confrontation, he thanked the support received and reaffirmed his commitment to mutual respect between cultures. His mature and firm response solidified him not only as a sports idol but as a true ambassador for Mexico in the world.
Sheikh Khalid, forced by circumstances, had no choice but to issue a public apology, although he did not explicitly mention Canelo. However, the boxer’s image had been strengthened like never before. Prince Mohammed, determined to close ranks, assigned Canelo to the Royal Sports Pavilion for his training and assured his personal presence in the Mexican’s corner during the fight, raising the anticipation for the bout against William Scull to a historic new level.
Staying true to his values, Canelo rejected any undue advantage. He accepted international supervision and neutral referees to avoid any hint of favoritism, reaffirming his desire to win cleanly in the ring.
Today, as Riyadh prepares for one of the most anticipated fights of the year, Saúl Álvarez presents himself not only as the greatest boxer of his generation but as a living symbol of resilience, respect, and moral greatness. Because if anything this experience proved, it’s that the true champion is not always measured by the belts around his waist, but by how he rises when they try to humiliate him.
And on May 3rd, when the bell rings in the heart of Saudi Arabia, the world will know that Canelo Álvarez is not only fighting for titles… he is fighting for honor.
