As the countdown to one of boxing's most anticipated bouts begins, William Scull is set to face the legendary Canelo Álvarez on May 3, 2025, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This match will not only be a test of skill and endurance but will also see all 168-pound championships on the line, with Scull defending his International Boxing Federation (IBF) title and Álvarez putting his World Boxing Council (CMB), World Boxing Association (AMB), and World Boxing Organization (OMB) titles at stake.
Scull, a rising star in the boxing world, recently shared his thoughts on the current state of the sport. In an interview with DAZN Boxing, he revealed his top three pound-for-pound boxers, listing Oleksandr Usyk, Dmitry Bivol, and Canelo Álvarez in that order. "Usyk, Bivol, and Canelo," declared Scull, showcasing his respect for the Mexican champion, whom he considers an idol. This upcoming fight represents a monumental step in Scull's career, as he prepares to step into the ring for a bout of this magnitude for the very first time.
Meanwhile, Canelo Álvarez has already landed in Saudi Arabia, where he is acclimating to the local time zone ahead of the fight. The match is scheduled for 6 a.m. local time, which translates to approximately 9 p.m. in Mexico City. Álvarez's arrival was a spectacle, reminiscent of a superstar welcome, as he was greeted by local fans and media alike. A video shared by the Arab sheikh, Turki Al-Sheikh, showed Álvarez dressed in white and flanked by his team, led by his long-time trainer, Eddy Reynoso.
Notably, this fight marks the beginning of a significant contract for Álvarez, who signed with Turki Al-Sheikh for four fights. This bout against Scull is the first of those fights, and it will also be Álvarez's inaugural appearance on a different continent for a professional match. Speculation suggests that he may have up to three events in Riyadh, presenting an exciting opportunity for fans and fighters alike.
The fight card for May 3 is shaping up to be quite impressive. Alongside Álvarez vs. Scull, fans can look forward to Jaime Munguía taking on Bruno Surace in a rematch after Munguía's knockout loss to Surace on December 14, 2024. Additionally, Marco Verde will make his professional boxing debut against Michel Polina, while Brayan León faces Aaron Guerrero, Badou Jack goes up against Ryan Rozicki, and Martín Bakole battles Efe Ajagba. This lineup promises an action-packed evening for boxing enthusiasts.
In preparation for the fight, Canelo Álvarez has made significant changes to his training regimen and diet. He has incorporated fasting into his routine, doing so up to three times a week, which he balances with his favorite dishes. His personal chef is meticulously crafting meals to ensure he is in peak physical condition. Among his favorites is a tuna dish 'a la caribeña,' which includes fresh tuna, salt, pepper, lemon, and a special chipotle dressing, complemented by cucumber, mango, red onion, and serrano peppers.
As the fight date approaches, the excitement continues to build. Scull is eager for the challenge, while Álvarez is focused on defending his titles and maintaining his status as one of the sport's all-time greats. This matchup is not just about the titles at stake; it’s a clash of two fighters at different stages of their careers, with Scull looking to make a name for himself and Álvarez aiming to solidify his legacy.
In the lead-up to the fight, both fighters are under immense pressure. Scull, with his underdog status, is determined to prove his worth in the ring, while Álvarez, the seasoned champion, is expected to deliver a performance that reflects his experience and skill. The stakes are high, and the boxing world is watching closely.
As fans eagerly await the showdown, the atmosphere surrounding the event is electric. The anticipation of seeing two fighters at the peak of their abilities going head-to-head is what makes boxing so thrilling. With every passing day, the excitement grows, and both fighters are preparing for what promises to be an unforgettable night in Riyadh.
Ultimately, the fight between Canelo Álvarez and William Scull is shaping up to be a monumental event in the boxing calendar, with plenty of narratives unfolding as the date draws nearer. The clash of styles, the championship titles on the line, and the personal stakes for both fighters create a compelling storyline that fans will not want to miss.
