Canelo's Long-Awaited Ring Return is in a War Zone

For several years now, Saudi Arabia's Riyadh Season has been staging some of the biggest matches in boxing. You could even make the argument that Riyadh is the capital of world boxing, with the UK being the other contender.

But if you've been watching the news over the last few months, you'll know that the headlines on Saudi Arabia are about the conflict that's engulfing the region.

The Iranian blockade of the Straits of Hormuz has forced Saudi Arabia to find other routes for its oil exports.  But thanks to the Houthis from neighbouring Yemen going on the offensive, those channels too are under threat.

While damaging to the desert kingdom's economy - and potentially future sports funding - that shouldn't interfere with scheduled boxing matches in Riyadh.

But the recent Houthi drone attacks on King Khalid International Airport are a direct cause of concern to the boxers and the people around them, who are scheduled to fly there.

Some of them will no doubt have seen the videos of Umrah pilgrims getting blown up in the terminal buildings last week, and will understandably be nervous. The US is advising all its citizens against any travel to Saudi Arabia.

Saudi boxing guru, Turki Alalshikh said Canelo himself is still willing to go ahead with the fight, and that he "fears nothing."

But it should be noted that the Mexican superstar will enjoy the privilege of flying there in a private jet, and won't be passing through King Khalid Airport.

Turki's reluctance to cancel the event might be explained by the fact that Canelo would still be entitled to his full payment. But If Canelo is the one to pull out, he'd receive nothing, and could jeopardise the remaining two fights in his four-fight deal with Turki.

The WBC also stands to lose out financially if the Canelo show does not go ahead. No surprise then that its president, Mauricio Suleiman said that he and his officials would all be making the trip. He said people should not be concerned, because "sports are a white flag of peace." He had better pray that the Houthis agree with him.

But not everyone is happy with the situation. The esteemed American trainer, Robert Garcia, who has a boxer on the Canelo-Mbili undercard, has made his objections clear: "We're going to the f***ing airport that's being bombed? F*** that!"

Rival promoter, Oscar De La Hoya has told Turki Al-Sheikh and Sela that they should value human life and safety over their financial interests.

There may be a potential solution that addresses the security concerns while keeping the fight alive. Riyadh Season has occasionally hosted fights in other parts the world. It would be difficult to find an alternative venue at this late stage, but surely not impossible?