In a historic night for boxing, Saúl “Canelo” Álvarez stepped into the ring at the ANB Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on May 3, 2025, to face off against Cuban fighter William Scull. This marked Canelo's first fight outside of Mexico and the United States in his illustrious career, and the atmosphere was electric as fans eagerly awaited the clash.
As part of this monumental event, Canelo was accompanied by renowned Mexican singer Majo Aguilar, who performed the Mexican National Anthem before the fight. Aguilar, a member of the famous Aguilar musical dynasty, is known for her powerful voice and deep connection to Mexican culture. She follows in the footsteps of her family, with her father Pepe Aguilar and sister Ángela Aguilar having previously sung the anthem at Canelo's fights.
Before the fight, Canelo's entrance was equally spectacular, featuring the talented Luis R. Conriquez. Known for his corridos and regional Mexican music, Conriquez composed a special rap for Canelo, entitled "Mexicano Soy," which resonated with the pride of being Mexican. This performance was a fitting tribute to Canelo's heritage and added an extra layer of excitement to the event.
"Mexicano soy, llevo en alto mi bandera, que rifa donde quiera, la frente en alto a donde voy," Conriquez sang as Canelo made his way to the ring. This rap not only highlighted Canelo's journey but also celebrated Mexican identity, making it a memorable moment for both the boxer and the audience.
In an interview with journalist Adela Micha, Conriquez expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, "I’m excited to be here with Canelo for this fight. We’ve created a song that I hope everyone enjoys." The camaraderie between the two has grown over time, with Canelo having previously reached out to Conriquez to perform at his fights.
Prior to this fight, Conriquez had already made waves in the music scene with his hit song "Martes 13," which he performed during Canelo's bout against Jaime Munguía in 2024. This ongoing partnership between Canelo and Conriquez showcases how music and boxing can intertwine, creating an unforgettable spectacle for fans.
The significance of Aguilar singing the National Anthem cannot be understated. It serves as a symbol of unity and national pride, especially in an international setting. As the anthem echoed throughout the arena, it reminded everyone present of the cultural roots that bind them together.
As the fight commenced, the anticipation was palpable. Canelo, known for his explosive style and tactical prowess, was determined to make a statement in this new venue. His journey to this point has been marked by numerous accolades and a reputation as one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the world.
On the other hand, Scull, a rising star in the boxing world, was eager to prove himself against a champion of Canelo's caliber. This fight was not just a personal challenge for him but also an opportunity to elevate his own status in the sport.
Fans from around the globe tuned in to witness this historic matchup, with many eager to see how Canelo would adapt to fighting in a new environment. The fight was broadcast live, allowing a wider audience to engage with the event, further solidifying Canelo's status as a global sports icon.
As the rounds progressed, both fighters showcased their skills, with Canelo leveraging his experience and Scull demonstrating impressive resilience. Each punch thrown and each strategy employed was met with roars from the audience, creating an electrifying atmosphere that only a boxing match of this magnitude could produce.
In addition to the boxing action, the cultural elements surrounding the fight added to its significance. The collaboration between music and sports highlighted the rich traditions of Mexican culture, bringing together fans of both boxing and music in a celebration of national pride.
As the event unfolded, it became clear that this was more than just a fight; it was a showcase of Mexican talent, both in the ring and on stage. The performances by Aguilar and Conriquez served as a reminder of the deep connections that exist between sports and the arts, especially in a country where both are celebrated.
As the night drew to a close, the anticipation of the outcome lingered in the air. While the final result was still unknown, one thing was certain: this fight would be remembered not just for the action inside the ring but for the cultural celebration that accompanied it.
With Canelo Álvarez's legacy continuing to grow, the impact of this fight will resonate for years to come, further solidifying his place in boxing history and the hearts of fans worldwide.
