Undisputed super middleweight world champion Saul “Canelo” Alvarez is preparing for his first bout of 2025 against IBF mandatory challenger William Scull. However, the Mexican star’s decision to stage the fight in Saudi Arabia has sparked concern across the boxing world. Former world champion Juan Manuel Marquez has voiced his apprehensions about the potential challenges Álvarez may face in this high-profile matchup, set to take place in the coming weeks.
The choice of Saudi Arabia as the venue has generated mixed reactions, particularly on social media, where previous warnings about the region’s unique demands on fighters have resurfaced. Now, those concerns could become reality and impact the performance of one of the sport’s most dominant pound-for-pound fighters.
Boxing legend Juan Manuel Marquez was especially vocal about the physical and mental adjustments Canelo will need to make ahead of his clash with Scull. In an interview with ProBox TV, Marquez outlined several factors that could hinder Canelo’s preparation and performance on foreign soil.
“You have to adjust to the time zone. You’re on another continent, and I think that matters. The toughest opponent here might be the schedule itself,” Márquez said. “Fighters are used to performing at a specific hour. It’s going to be a significant challenge. You need to adapt to the schedule, the climate—so many things that are different from your daily life. That adjustment isn’t easy.”
Canelo Alvarez seeks to cement his legacy on new ground
The upcoming bout against William Scull in May marks a new chapter in Alvarez’s career, following his agreement with Turki Al-Sheikh to bring top-tier boxing events to Saudi Arabia. The alliance offers lucrative financial incentives and ensures Canelo maintains his place among boxing’s elite. While Alvarez enters the ring as the heavy favorite, he must still contend with the unpredictable effects of competing in a vastly different environment from those he’s accustomed to.
What lies ahead for Canelo?
After facing Scull, Alvarez will need to evaluate his next steps as he seeks to further solidify his legacy as one of boxing’s all-time greats. Despite frequent criticism surrounding his career choices, the Mexican icon continues to demonstrate why he is regarded as the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world. Still, the lingering question remains: how much will the environmental and adaptive factors of Saudi Arabia affect him in the ring?