Saul 'Canelo' Álvarez has signed a massive $400 million deal with Saudi Arabia's Riyadh Season. The agreement covers four fights scheduled from May 2025 to October 2026, setting up one of the most lucrative periods in the Mexican boxer's career.
Turki Alalshikh, who chairs Saudi Arabia's General Entertainment Authority, announced the deal. It kicks off in May 2025 when Álvarez faces IBF champion William Scull in Riyadh. The second fight, slated for September 2025, will see Álvarez square off against Terence 'Bud' Crawford at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, with an expected crowd of 65,000 fans. The final two bouts are set for February and October 2026, both in Riyadh, with opponents yet to be named.
The financial breakdown of the deal is eye-watering. According to Action Network, Álvarez will earn $100 million per fight. That's $8.33 million per round, $231,481 per minute, or $3,858 every second he's in the ring.
The showdown with Crawford in September 2025 could become the richest bout in boxing history. Crawford, currently fighting at 154lbs, will move up to 168lbs to face Álvarez. There's no rehydration clause, giving Crawford the freedom to bulk up as he sees fit. The undefeated Crawford sees this as his chance to cement his place among the all-time greats.
Ray Jackson, a well-known boxing commentator, says Álvarez might pocket $150 million for the Crawford fight alone. If true, it would make him the highest-paid boxer of 2025. Crawford's earnings aren't public yet, but they're expected to be substantial.
Álvarez turned down a proposed fight with Jake Paul to take this deal. His decision puts him well ahead of other top earners in the sport. For comparison, Tyson Fury made $105 million for two fights in 2024, while Oleksandr Usyk earned $114 million.
"This deal solidifies Canelo's status as one of the greatest Mexican fighters ever," said boxing analyst Maria Gonzalez. "It's not just about the money. It's about the legacy he's building."
Right now, all eyes are on Álvarez's upcoming fight with William Scull. But the boxing world can't wait for September's showdown with Crawford. It's more than just a fight – it could reshape modern boxing.
The deal marks a new era in boxing, with Saudi Arabia flexing its financial muscle to attract top talent. As the first fight approaches, fans and pundits alike will watch closely to see how Álvarez handles the pressure of such a lucrative contract.
