Boxing superstar Canelo Alvarez will attempt to reclaim his undisputed super middleweight crown when he faces undefeated IBF champion William Scull on May 3 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This high-stakes matchup represents Canelo's first venture outside North America and his debut under the Riyadh Season banner.
Canelo (62-2-2, 39 KOs) previously achieved undisputed status at super middleweight in just eleven months, but was stripped of the IBF title after failing to face mandatory challenger Scull. Now riding a five-fight winning streak, including a dominant performance against Edgar Berlanga last September, the Mexican icon aims to enhance his legacy by becoming a two-time undisputed champion.
"This is important for me because Mexican fighters go to other countries as opponents. Now I'm here as the 'A-side' in Saudi Arabia and that opens the door to other fighters from Mexico, and I'm proud to do that for my country," Canelo explained.
Cuba's William Scull (23-0, 9 KOs), nicknamed "El Indomable," captured the IBF belt by defeating Vladimir Shishkin and has primarily competed in Germany throughout his career. Despite entering as a substantial underdog, Scull has shown unwavering confidence.
"I have the utmost respect for Canelo, but I'm here for one reason and that's to win. That's it. I'm gonna eat him," Scull declared. "I'm focused on what I have to do. I'm very excited because I'm here to shut some mouths and do exactly what I need to do on Saturday."
According to fight probability metrics from Statbet, Canelo remains the heavy favorite despite Scull's perfect professional record, with the champion's experience against elite opposition being a significant factor.
The event features an impressive undercard, headlined by Badou Jack defending his WBC cruiserweight title against Norair Mikaeljan. At 41, Jack looks to prove ring rust isn't a factor after being inactive since claiming the belt against Ilunga Makabu in 2023.
Fans will also witness Jaime Munguia's attempt to avenge his shocking loss to Bruno Surace. Their first encounter ended with Surace delivering a spectacular first-round knockout in what has been called the 2024 Upset of the Year.
Rounding out the main card, heavyweight contenders Martin Bakole and Efe Ajagba square off in a compelling clash. Bakole seeks redemption after having his ten-fight winning streak snapped by Joseph Parker in February, while IBF #3-ranked Ajagba aims to extend his five-fight winning streak and position himself for a title shot.
The action begins with undefeated Cuban prospect Brayan Leon, who has won all six professional bouts by knockout, facing Mexico's Aaron Rocha Guerrero in a light heavyweight contest.
This championship event represents another significant step in Saudi Arabia's growing influence in global boxing, with Canelo's star power helping to establish the Kingdom as a premier destination for elite fights.
