Canelo Alvarez shifts camp to Spain to align with Riyadh time zone

Canelo Alvarez has relocated his training camp from San Diego to Gandia, Spain, to manage the logistical challenges of his upcoming title defense. The move aims to reduce the physiological strain of the ten-hour time difference between his usual training base and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where the fight will take place on Oct. 31. By training in Gandia, a coastal city near Valencia, Alvarez aligns his schedule with Riyadh, which is only one hour ahead of the Spanish city.

The relocation is part of a broader strategic adjustment as Alvarez seeks to reclaim the WBC super middleweight title. He lost that specific belt to Terence Crawford in September 2025. Now standing at 63 wins, three losses, and two draws, with 39 knockouts, Alvarez is focused on returning to a winning streak after more than a year away from the ring. He described himself as "very happy to be back" and "almost ready to fight" in an interview with ESPN Deportes editor Ernesto Rodarte on Sept. 29.

Alvarez believes the shift in location is essential for his physical adaptation. He noted that the human body typically requires about 21 days to adjust to new schedules and habits. By spending these final weeks in Spain, his team aims to ensure his body is synchronized with the Saudi time zone before the bout. The training is being conducted at the gym of former heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk, where Alvarez is working with Usyk's conditioning team.

The opponent, Christian Mbilli, presents a specific tactical challenge. Alvarez acknowledges that Mbilli is a world champion with high stamina and a high volume of punches. The training in Spain has been deliberately focused on matching that output. Alvarez stated that he is working to use his experience to respond to Mbilli's style with similar endurance. He noted that while Mbilli is a great fighter, he has never faced someone with Alvarez's specific characteristics and level of experience.

Alvarez also addressed the recent discourse surrounding fights in Saudi Arabia. He said his mind was always focused on the opportunity to fight in the region. He expressed happiness with the situation and indicated that he is mentally prepared for the environment. "My mind has always been on fighting in Saudi Arabia," he said. He added that while he heard the external comments, his focus remained on the preparation process in Spain.

Looking beyond the immediate fight, Alvarez discussed his long-term career trajectory. He suggested that he has four or five more fights in him, describing this phase as a bonus to his career. He stated that he has accomplished everything he set out to do in boxing and that he could continue fighting based on his current physical tests. However, he also noted that he has goals outside the sport.

Upon retirement, Alvarez does not see himself staying involved in the industry as a promoter. He said he would miss the daily routine of training the most. He expressed a desire for his final professional fight to take place in Mexico. He specifically mentioned Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, where he recently attended a World Cup match as a fan. Alvarez said he had a video call with Emilio Azcarraga, the chairman of Televisa, regarding the possibility of holding a fight at that venue in the future.

The shift in training location reflects a calculated approach to the physical demands of international boxing. By closing the time zone gap to one hour rather than ten, Alvarez aims to minimize fatigue and optimize performance. The camp in Gandia serves as a final preparation phase before the team moves to Riyadh for the Oct. 31 event.