Saúl "Canelo" Álvarez is gearing up for a historic boxing match on May 3, 2025, as he steps into the ring against Cuban fighter William Scull. This fight marks a significant milestone in Álvarez's illustrious career, as it will be his first bout outside of Mexico or the USA, and the first of four scheduled fights in Saudi Arabia after signing a contract with Riyadh Season. Álvarez, the current world champion of the World Boxing Association (WBA), World Boxing Council (WBC), and World Boxing Organization (WBO), aims to reclaim the International Boxing Federation (IBF) title he lost in September 2024.
Since his professional debut on October 19, 2005, Canelo has faced an array of formidable opponents, including legends and champions like Floyd Mayweather Jr., Gennady "GGG" Golovkin, and Miguel Cotto. Over the years, he has built an impressive record of 62 wins, with 39 of those victories coming by knockout, alongside 2 losses and 2 draws. His first professional loss came against Mayweather on September 14, 2013, where he was outclassed by the American's renowned defensive skills. Canelo's second defeat occurred on May 7, 2022, when he faced Dmitry Bivol in the light heavyweight category, losing by unanimous decision.
Álvarez has transformed the date of May 5 into an iconic tradition in boxing, coinciding with the Mexican celebration of the Battle of Puebla. Over the years, he has fought ten times around this date, achieving nine victories and one loss. His bouts have attracted thousands of fans, particularly in cities like Las Vegas and Guadalajara, solidifying his status as a key figure in this annual celebration of Mexican pride.
Throughout his career, Canelo has faced several legendary boxers, leaving a lasting impact with each match. Notable rivalries include his trilogy with Golovkin, which captivated boxing fans worldwide. The first bout in September 2017 ended in a controversial draw, while Canelo claimed victory in the rematch in 2018 by a narrow decision. In 2022, he completed the trilogy with a decisive win, showcasing his evolution as a fighter.
In November 2015, Canelo faced Miguel Cotto for the WBC middleweight championship, where he displayed tactical prowess and won by unanimous decision. This victory was pivotal in elevating his international status. His ability to adapt and overcome challenges has defined his career, as seen in his encounters with various fighters.
As he prepares for the upcoming match against Scull, Canelo is not only focused on reclaiming his title but also on continuing to build his legacy. After the fight with Scull, he is set to face Terence Crawford in September 2025 in the USA, followed by two more fights scheduled in Saudi Arabia in 2026.
In the lead-up to his fights, Canelo has also made headlines for incorporating musical performances into his ring entrances. Over the years, he has been accompanied by renowned artists, enhancing the spectacle of his fights. For instance, in 2019, Pepe Aguilar performed during his entrance, while in 2021, J Balvin joined him. In 2022, Grupo Firme entertained fans, and for his upcoming fight in 2025, Luis R. Conriquez will perform, with Majo Aguilar singing the National Anthem.
As Canelo steps into the ring on May 3, he will not only be fighting for titles but also representing Mexican culture and heritage. His ability to connect with fans and embody the spirit of the sport has made him a beloved figure in boxing. The anticipation surrounding the match against Scull is palpable, as fans are eager to see how Canelo will perform in this new chapter of his career.
In addition to his boxing achievements, Canelo has become a symbol of national pride for Mexico, using his platform to showcase the rich culture and traditions of his homeland. Each fight around May 5 serves as a reminder of the significance of this date, as it commemorates the historic Battle of Puebla in 1862, a day of cultural pride for the Mexican diaspora.
As the fight date approaches, the excitement builds, and fans are left wondering if Canelo will reclaim his title and continue his legacy as one of the greatest boxers of all time. With a stellar record and a determination to succeed, Canelo Álvarez remains a force to be reckoned with in the boxing world.
In conclusion, the upcoming bout against William Scull represents a pivotal moment in Canelo's career. It is not just a fight; it is a celebration of Mexican culture, a testament to his resilience, and an opportunity to further solidify his legacy in the annals of boxing history. Fans around the world will be watching closely as Canelo steps into the ring, ready to make history once again.
