Saúl "Canelo" Álvarez is gearing up for an exciting showdown this Saturday, May 3, 2025, as he faces off against Cuban boxer William Scull in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This highly anticipated match marks Canelo's first professional fight outside of Mexico or the United States, and it promises to be a significant event in the boxing world.
The bout will take place at The Venue Riyad Season - ANB Arena, which is designed to accommodate 8,000 spectators. Canelo, who holds the WBC, IBO, and WBA super middleweight titles, will be fighting for the IBF championship, which Scull claimed after defeating Vladimir Shishkin in October 2024. This clash is not just about titles; it's also a celebration of the Cinco de Mayo festivities, making it a culturally significant event for fans of boxing.
In a groundbreaking move, Canelo has signed a lucrative contract with Saudi Arabian entertainment mogul Turki Alalshikh for four fights, three of which will occur in Saudi Arabia. This deal has sparked debate among fans and analysts, as it shifts Canelo's fighting venue from the traditional Las Vegas to the Middle East. The financial implications are staggering; Canelo is estimated to earn around $80 million for this fight alone, with potential earnings from the entire contract reaching up to $400 million. The pay-per-view revenue could also add another $30 million to his purse, bringing his total earnings for this fight to an impressive $120 million.
Tickets for the event have been remarkably affordable compared to Canelo's previous fights in Las Vegas. The cheapest ticket in Saudi Arabia is priced at just $20 (approximately 400 Mexican pesos), while the most expensive ticket is $203 (around 4000 pesos). In stark contrast, tickets in Las Vegas can range from $350 to $5,000 (7,000 to 100,000 pesos). This pricing strategy is likely to attract a broader audience, making it more accessible for boxing fans.
As the fight draws near, excitement is building not only for the match itself but also for the performances surrounding it. Mexican singer Majo Aguilar, part of the renowned Aguilar family dynasty, will perform the Mexican National Anthem before the fight. Canelo himself expressed his pride in having Aguilar sing the anthem, highlighting her recent success as a two-time Latin Grammy nominee. "Viene Majo Aguilar, ella estará aquí haciéndonos el honor de entonar el Himno de México en Arabia Saudita," Canelo stated in an interview. This will be Aguilar's second time singing the anthem at a sporting event, having previously performed at the Rose Bowl during a match between América and Chivas.
The event is generating buzz not only for the boxing match but also for its cultural significance. Canelo's decision to fight in Saudi Arabia represents a new chapter in his career, as he has historically fought in Mexico and the United States. The move aligns with a broader trend of high-profile boxing events being hosted in the Middle East, particularly during the Riyadh Season, which aims to position Saudi Arabia as a global entertainment hub.
In the lead-up to the fight, Canelo has emphasized the importance of this match, especially given the circumstances surrounding the IBF title. He lost the belt after refusing to fight Scull, making this bout a crucial opportunity for him to reclaim his status as the undisputed super middleweight champion. At 34 years old, Canelo boasts an impressive record of 66 fights, with 39 wins coming by knockout. Scull, 32, has a record of 23 fights, 9 of which he won by knockout, showcasing his own capabilities as a formidable opponent.
Fans around the world are eager to witness this clash of titans, with the fight set to be broadcast live on DAZN via pay-per-view, priced at $59.99. In Mexico, the fight will be available on open television in a delayed broadcast, adding to the anticipation surrounding the event. Canelo's popularity ensures that this fight will attract significant viewership, both in person at the arena and through various media platforms.
As the clock ticks down to fight night, the atmosphere in Riyadh is charged with excitement. The combination of a high-stakes boxing match and cultural performances is set to create a memorable experience for fans. Canelo's journey into this new arena not only marks a pivotal moment in his career but also highlights the evolving landscape of boxing as it embraces international venues and audiences.
With less than 50 tickets remaining, the event is on track to sell out, indicating the high demand for this historic fight. As Canelo prepares to step into the ring, all eyes will be on him to see if he can reclaim his title and solidify his legacy in the boxing world.
As the boxing community holds its breath, the question remains: will Canelo Álvarez emerge victorious against William Scull and reclaim the IBF title? Fans will find out soon enough as this thrilling matchup unfolds in Riyadh.
