More than a week later, reactions continue to surface about what many consider a disappointing fight. While Canelo struggled to find openings, Scull focused on avoiding exchanges throughout all 12 rounds. That cautious approach did not sit well with WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman, who didn’t hold back in his assessment.

“It was disappointing the attitude of Scull,” Sulaiman said during his traditional Martes de Cafe appearance. “Really when you’re there you’re watching it, on television you can also see, but when you’re there, stuck to the ring, how he shamefully refused, not even the exchange of any way. It was shameful — dances, side steps backwards.”

Sulaiman: “He did nothing to win the fight”

Sulaiman didn’t mince words in labeling Scull’s performance a letdown, suggesting the Cuban’s overly defensive strategy bordered on disrespect. “From Scull’s side, absolutely yes (it was disrespectful), because boxing is boxing. You can have a strategy — tire out your opponent, frustrate him, dominate him, and then do something to win,” he explained. “But he did nothing to win the fight, only survive, and showed us that salsa is beautiful — and that he dances it very well.”

The WBC president’s remarks highlighted his broader concern that a bout between two of the division’s top fighters failed to meet expectations or serve as a showcase for the sport.

Sulaiman also criticized Canelo’s performance

While Scull received the harshest critique, Canelo Alvarez was not immune to Sulaiman’s disapproval. He acknowledged that the setting may have played a role in the Mexican champion’s underwhelming display.

“In Saul’s case, I think it did have an important effect having fought in Saudi Arabia, a place so far from home, where the altitude and the air is very heavy,” he stated. “There were no people, the motivation that your audience gives you was not there.”

Sulaiman noted that the lack of atmosphere impacted Canelo’s energy and focus. “I feel that Saul did not have that extra motivation, necessary,” he concluded. “He did enough to win against a guy who refuses to fight. He has a lot of experience, he does not need to do other things. It was an event that left a sad touch in boxing.”

With a unanimous decision victory, Canelo became the undisputed super middleweight champion for the second time, marking a historic milestone in his storied career. However, the fight’s outcome was met with vocal disapproval from Scull, whose perfect record came to an abrupt end.

Scull wasted no time in criticizing the decision, accusing the judges of being swayed by Canelo’s reputation. Speaking to ESPN, the Cuban boxer lamented, “They beat me in a fight without hitting me. It’s a shame, isn’t it? That boxing has come to this… This is boxing: to hit and not be hit.”

According to Scull, his defensive strategy was misunderstood. He believed his ability to evade punishment should have counted in his favor, arguing that avoiding Canelo’s offense was a demonstration of control, not retreat. His comments went viral, fueling a heated debate on social media about whether evasive tactics constitute a legitimate winning style or simply a lack of offensive intent.

Canelo fires back: “You came just to survive”

Canelo swiftly responded to the backlash, dismissing Scull’s complaints and openly questioning his mentality. In an interview with FightHub TV, the champion revealed he confronted Scull during the fight itself.

“I told him: ‘You just came to survive. You can’t win a fight like that, fighting like that,’” Canelo said, highlighting his frustration with Scull’s defensive posture. From Canelo’s perspective, the Cuban’s unwillingness to engage diminished the quality of the contest and validated the judges’ verdict.

Later, in a statement to TMZ, Canelo reiterated his dominance: “In boxing, I’ve already achieved everything. I’ve fought everyone… I’ve won many titles in different divisions.” He also emphasized that, despite Scull’s solid defense, the lack of offensive production left no question as to who deserved the win.

Canelo: Cementing a historic legacy

With this victory, Canelo adds all four major belts at 168 pounds to his resume once again, reaffirming his status as one of boxing’s greatest active fighters. The triumph brings his record to 63 wins, while making him the only Mexican boxer to become undisputed champion twice in the same weight class.

[Watch Canelo Alvarez vs William Scull online in the US on DAZN]

Canelo Alvarez is set to defend his undisputed super middleweight title against undefeated contender William Scull in what’s expected to be a grueling 12-round battle. Boasting a professional record of 61-2-2 with 39 knockouts, the Mexican superstar looks to further cement his legendary status in the sport.

Scull, who enters the ring with a perfect 22-0 mark and 9 knockouts, is a the current IBF super middleweight champion, and is hungry for a career-defining upset. Despite Scull’s momentum, Alvarez’s experience and pedigree make him the clear favorite heading into this high-stakes showdown.

When will the Canelo Alvarez vs William Scull fight take place?

This highly anticipated boxing showdown between Canelo Alvarez and William Scull in the undisputed super middleweight boxing championship is set for this Saturday, May 3, at 11:00 PM (ET).

Canelo Alvarez vs William Scull: Time by State in the USA

ET: 11:00 PM

CT: 10:00 PM

MT: 9:00 PM

PT: 8:00 PM

How to watch Canelo Alvarez vs William Scull in the USA

You can watch the 2025 boxing fight between Canelo Alvarez and William Scull in the United States on DAZN PPV.

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.

As is customary in major bouts, both fighters will receive a guaranteed purse, augmented by additional income from Pay-Per-View (PPV) sales and lucrative sponsorship deals. These variable components can significantly boost the total payout, especially for an athlete of Canelo’s stature.

Canelo Alvarez is widely recognized as one of the highest-paid athletes in the world. His impressive financial success is not only a result of his dominance in the ring but also of his savvy business decisions and the experienced team that manages his career. For his clash against Scull, Canelo has maintained the same blueprint that has led to record-breaking payouts throughout his career.

At the core of his financial security is a staggering five-fight agreement with Turki Alalshikh, chairman of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority. The contract, reportedly worth $400 million, places Canelo at the top tier of boxing’s biggest earners. Notably, this figure excludes income from merchandise sales, event sponsorships, PPV revenue, and other commercial ventures, all of which add significantly to his overall earnings.

Estimated earnings for Canelo vs. Scull

While official figures for the Canelo vs. Scull bout have not been disclosed, projections based on the terms of Canelo’s contract suggest he will earn around $80 million for this fight alone. This estimate is derived by dividing the $400 million agreement across the five contracted bouts.

Such a payout underscores one of the most lucrative arrangements in modern boxing history. Still, it remains short of the financial heights reached by Floyd Mayweather Jr., who reportedly earned $650 million across marquee fights with Manny Pacquiao, Conor McGregor, and others.

William Scull: The opportunity of a lifetime

For Cuban challenger William Scull, this fight represents both a career-defining opportunity and the biggest payday of his professional journey. While Scull’s earnings will not approach Canelo’s astronomical figure, participating in a headline event of this magnitude will undoubtedly boost his profile and market value within the sport.

When and where will the Canelo vs Scull fight take place?

The highly anticipated bout will take place on Saturday, May 3, at the ANB Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, as part of the prestigious Riyadh Season. Adding to the excitement, the card will also feature the professional debut of rising talent Marco Verde, further enriching an event already poised to captivate boxing fans worldwide.

How to watch Canelo Alvarez vs. William Scull

Fans looking to catch every moment of the Canelo Alvarez vs. William Scull bout can stream the event live through DAZN, the official platform carrying the fight. Make sure your account is active to enjoy full coverage, including detailed pre-fight analysis and commentary. DAZN can be accessed across multiple devices—smartphones, tablets, laptops, and smart TVs—so you won’t miss a second of the action, no matter where you are.

William Scull, a boxer with an undefeated record, is making waves in the super-middleweight division. Known for his powerful punches and unwavering determination, he’s quickly becoming a force to be reckoned with in the ring.

Born in Cuba, he started his boxing career in Argentina before relocating to Germany. His rise in the boxing world is marked by a mix of technique and relentless drive, making his future in the sport even brighter.

With 23 wins and 9 knockouts, he claimed the IBF super-middleweight title, cementing his place as a world-class contender. But beyond his success in the ring, his connection to soccer culture adds another layer to his persona.

How old is William Scull?

Born on June 6, 1992, in Matanzas, Cuba, William Scull is 32 years old as of 2025. Despite coming from a country with deep boxing roots, his professional career took off abroad, far from the traditional Cuban amateur system.

He began his journey in Argentina, a strategic move that allowed him to bypass Cuba’s strict regulations on pro boxing. Over the years, he carved a steady path that’s now led him to the top tier of the super-middleweight division.

How tall is William Scull?

William Scull stands at 5 feet 11½ inches (182 cm), a height that grants him solid reach for his weight class. This physical edge becomes particularly useful when paired with his measured footwork and stiff jab.

His stature, combined with an orthodox stance, allows him to impose rhythm and keep opponents at bay. He rarely overcommits, using his frame smartly to stay technical and in control.

What is William Scull’s weight?

Scull competes in the 168-pound (76.2 kg) super-middleweight division, but often weighs in just below that—his last fight saw him at 167.5 lbs. It’s a category that demands not just strength, but athleticism and stamina.

Keeping his weight razor-sharp has allowed him to maintain consistency across long bouts. There’s never been a sign of physical fade; if anything, his conditioning seems to sharpen as the rounds wear on.

William Scull’s career highlights

• Professional Debut (2016, Argentina): Scull’s first pro fight took place in Argentina on September 10, 2016, where he scored a unanimous decision win over Diego Rojas. Starting his career outside of Cuba due to restrictions, Scull built a strong base in South America before moving to Europe.

• Breakthrough victory over Abel Adriel (2019): In April 2019, Scull captured attention after defeating Abel Adriel, a seasoned Argentine fighter. The win, by unanimous decision, marked a turning point—showcasing his ring IQ and control against a much more experienced opponent.

• First international title: WBA Inter-Continental (2021): Scull claimed the WBA Inter-Continental super-middleweight belt in August 2021 by defeating Evaldas Korsakas in Germany. The victory elevated his status, positioning him in global rankings and opening doors to more significant bouts.

• Eliminator vs. Sean Hemphill (2022): Facing undefeated American prospect Sean Hemphill, Scull dominated the IBF eliminator fight, which gave him mandatory challenger status for the world title. It was a tactical masterclass that proved his readiness for elite competition.

• IBF Super-Middleweight Champion (October 2024): Perhaps his biggest career milestone to date: Scull defeated Vladimir Shishkin via unanimous decision in Falkensee, Germany, capturing the vacant IBF world title. The win was decisive and methodical, reinforcing his reputation as a disciplined technician.

• Set to face Canelo Álvarez (May 2025): Now with the IBF belt on his shoulder, Scull is slated to face Mexican legend Canelo Álvarez in a title unification bout on May 3, 2025, in Riyadh. The event, backed by Turki Alalshikh, is expected to be one of the biggest fights of the year.

While public anticipation has largely focused on the possibility of a Canelo-Benavidez duel, a potential rematch with Dmitry Bivol, or even a nostalgic reunion with Gennady Golovkin, the reality is clear: Canelo is set to face Scull this Saturday, May 3, 2025, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. And the undefeated Cuban boxer is determined to prove his worth on the global stage.

In a recent interview, Scull responded directly to influential figures such as Oscar de la Hoya and Juan Manuel Marquez, who have questioned whether he belongs in the same ring as the Mexican champion. Far from intimidated by the critiques of these boxing legends, Scull firmly defended his resume and the legitimacy of his title opportunity.

“To each their own, everyone has their own opinion and way of expressing things,” Scull remarked during an interview with Azteca Deportes. “I tell people that to those who say I am a bum, no—I am a world champion, and the position I have is because I earned it. Nothing has been given to me; I earned the belt.” These words draw a clear line against the dismissive remarks, reaffirming Scull’s status as a legitimate contender in the super middleweight division.

Scull’s fight for recognition

In an interview with TUDN, Scull also drew parallels between his own rise in boxing and the early careers of figures like De La Hoya and Marquez. Scull expressed his frustration with the lack of recognition despite his hard-fought journey: “It bothers me that they say I am unknown, but I have been boxing in four countries, defeating opponents across the globe. Today, I am a world champion. I haven’t had the support of TV or a big promoter, but what I’ve achieved, I’ve done on my own.”

Scull vs. Canelo: A high-stakes challenge

With an undefeated record of 23-0, including nine knockouts, Scull is fully aware of the magnitude of his upcoming fight with Canelo. Nevertheless, his confidence remains unshaken. “I’ve faced many different styles of boxers, and I’ve always adapted, defending and attacking with precision,” Scull said.

He added: “I’m a fighter for life, and I’m going to give everything in every fight. Tactically, we’re in great shape.” Scull’s conviction and strategic approach reveal the heart of a fighter determined to make his mark, despite the pressure and the significant challenge that lies ahead in Saudi Arabia.

In an interview with Zar Aguilar on the Escorpión Dorado YouTube channel, Carlos Aguilar recalled a training session he once shared with Canelo. During that exchange, the Guadalajara-born boxer landed a couple of straight punches that Aguilar confessed caused him significant pain. The commentator vividly described one of Álvarez’s unique techniques: “He hits with the knuckle of the index finger in an uppercut motion to the shoulders. It’s a technique Canelo began using—and I really felt the pain,” Aguilar recounted.

The analyst elaborated on the strategic purpose behind this move, explaining that Canelo uses it to wear down his opponent’s arm in hopes of lowering their guard. “It’s the classic sleeper. The blow lands, and you feel your body seize up. The day Canelo did it, the pain wasn’t in my shoulder—it was in my head!” he exclaimed, illustrating the sheer force of the punch.

Sparring with legends: Aguilar’s unique perspective

For Carlos Aguilar, stepping into the ring with top-tier boxers is not unusual. Over the years, he has shared sparring sessions with some of the sport’s biggest names, including Antonio Margarito, Manny Pacquiao, and Marco Antonio Barrera. During his session with Canelo, he even received advice on how to manage the headaches that often come after enduring such powerful blows.

This anecdote reflects not only Canelo’s brutal efficiency in the ring, but also his generosity and camaraderie toward those in the boxing world, including analysts and media figures.

Canelo gears up for Saudi Arabia debut

On Saturday, May 3, Canelo will step into the ring for the first time in Saudi Arabia, defending his titles against Scull. The Cuban-born fighter is known for a unique style that focuses less on knockout power and more on physically wearing down opponents over time. Scull’s strategy revolves around maintaining distance and exhausting rivals, rather than delivering highlight-reel combinations or finishing blows.

For Canelo, the key to victory will be to counter Scull’s endurance-based approach with explosive power and tactical control. His ability to break through Scull’s defenses will be crucial as he looks to make a dominant statement in his Middle East debut.

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?

On May 3, 2025, Canelo will kick off his four-fight deal with Saudi Arabia by facing IBF champion William Scull. With the IBF, WBA, WBC, WBO, and The Ring titles on the line, the stakes couldn’t be higher. However, many view Scull as a lesser opponent compared to Canelo’s previous rivals.

Scull boasts an undefeated record of 23-0, but it pales in comparison to Canelo’s impressive 62-2 resume. Speculation suggests this fight is a stepping stone toward a highly anticipated showdown with Terence Crawford in September. Yet, Oscar De La Hoya, a former six-division world champion, has issued a warning: Canelo should not underestimate Scull.

During a press event for Ryan Garcia, De La Hoya was asked about Canelo’s next fight. His response was unexpected: “I do not know who Scull is, and I’m a boxing guy,” De La Hoya said per iFLTV’s Colm McGuigan.

The promoter made it clear that it was not a personal criticism of Canelo. I swear I’m not just saying this because it’s Canelo and I don’t like Canelo. I’m saying this because I do not know who Scull is,” he emphasized.

De La Hoya’s warning to Canelo

Despite his lack of familiarity with Scull, De La Hoya pointed out that the Cuban fighter’s style could pose a challenge for Canelo. “And when I hear Cuban, you better be careful because he’s gonna have a lot of movement. He’s gonna have a lot of footwork, and that gives Canelo trouble,” De La Hoya stated.

The Cuban Style: A Potential Threat

De La Hoya recalled that Canelo has historically struggled against fighters with strong lateral movement and footwork, such as Erislandy Lara and Floyd Mayweather.

“Anybody who moves like Erislandy Lara, anybody who moves like Floyd Mayweather, who goes side-to-side boxing Canelo, who’s on his quicksand feet, is going to beat him,” De La Hoya warned.

What’s next for Canelo and Scull?

Scull enters this fight with immense motivation, aiming for a victory that would catapult him to stardom. For Canelo, the fight is an opportunity to silence critics and prove he remains the king of the super middleweight division. However, as De La Hoya’s warning suggests, Scull’s Cuban boxing style could present unexpected challenges.