Canelo raises stakes with fierce warning to William Scull ahead of Saudi fight

Just days before stepping into the ring in Saudi Arabia, Saúl “Canelo” Álvarez intensified his message to William Scull, declaring that the Cuban fighter won’t leave the ring without punishment. The Mexican superstar, holder of the WBC, WBA, and WBO super middleweight titles, is set to headline a milestone event at ANB Arena in Riyadh—his first bout outside North America.

This fight represents more than just another defense. For Canelo, it’s the beginning of a lucrative four-fight deal under a Saudi promotional banner and a chance to reaffirm his dominance in the division. Meanwhile, Scull, the unbeaten IBF champion, arrives with an underdog’s hunger and a defiant attitude.

“He talks about eating on Saturday? The only thing on his plate will be my right hand,” Canelo fired back at the final press conference, issuing a fierce warning to Scull and setting the tone for their showdown in Riyadh.

Canelo’s message

While the venue is new, the pressure is familiar. Canelo, with a professional record of 62 wins (39 by KO), 2 losses and 2 draws, has never shied away from big moments. “They always talk before the bell. But the ring tells the truth. It’s going to be different for him. Very different,” he added, sending a clear message about the tone he expects to set once the bell rings.

Scull enters with a 23-0 record and nine knockouts, fresh off his victory over Russian Vladimir Shishkin to claim the IBF title—a belt previously vacated by Canelo. That context adds fuel to Saturday’s encounter, as Scull looks to prove he belongs at the elite level against a fighter who once opted to face Edgar Berlanga instead.

Scull vows to fight with strategy, not emotion

In contrast to Canelo’s blunt force and bravado, Scull remains composed and methodical. “I fled Cuba, crossed borders, and now I’m here to win. I don’t care what the press says about me. I will fight calmly and with strategy,” said the Matanzas native, aware of the scale of the opportunity but not intimidated by the moment.

He may be stepping onto unfamiliar ground, but Scull brings a quiet confidence shaped by hardship. However, facing Canelo on foreign soil, in front of a global audience, presents a challenge unlike any he has seen before.