After the painful defeat against Terence Crawford — a loss many consider the toughest of his career — Saúl “Canelo” Álvarez faced days of silence, ruthless criticism, and an evident distancing from media, promoters, and former fans.
The general sentiment was clear: the boxing world had turned its back on him.

But amid that negative scenario, an unexpected gesture completely changed the course of his future.

“The whole world has turned its back on you… but Saudi Arabia will always welcome you.”

With these words, spoken with solemnity and emotion, Sheikh Khalid bin Sultan Al Saud, one of the most influential oil magnates in the country, announced a deal already considered one of the largest in the history of world sports.

The Sheikh, a strong supporter of Canelo’s talent, declared in front of international media:

“The world has betrayed you, Canelo. But we have not.
Saudi Arabia honors you, respects you, and wants you here.”

His words had an immediate impact. What he revealed next left journalists, promoters, and fans stunned:

A historic agreement: $1 billion in cash and $500 million for future fights

According to the official announcement, Sheikh Khalid will pay:

• $1 billion in cash directly to Canelo

• $500 million additional for his next fights held exclusively in Saudi Arabia

• The construction of a monumental boxing stadium with a capacity of 80,000 people, which will be named the “Canelo Arena”

The project is part of an ambitious Saudi plan to establish the country as the new global capital of combat sports.

Canelo breaks down: his response moves the world

Visibly affected, with moist eyes and a trembling voice, Canelo could barely speak.
In front of cameras and millions of viewers, the Mexican champion said:

“Thank you… I don’t know how to thank you. When many forgot about me, you reached out your hand.”

The room fell silent.
Even Sheikh Khalid — known for his unshakable demeanor — could not hold back tears, a moment that quickly went viral.

The redemption of a champion

The loss to Crawford had cast doubt on Canelo’s image and future. Some analysts even began to speak of “the end of an era.”
But Saudi Arabia’s involvement changes everything.

This agreement doesn’t just rescue Canelo’s figure:
it reinvents him, rebuilds him, and elevates him to an unprecedented economic and symbolic level.

Canelo moves from being a questioned champion to becoming the central figure of an ambitious global sports project.

A new beginning

As the world debates the future of boxing and the impact of Saudi money on sports, one thing is certain:
Canelo Álvarez has not spoken his last word.

Backed by one of the largest contracts ever signed and by a country willing to turn him into a legend, the Mexican is ready to write a new chapter.

And this time, he will not be walking alone.