Canelo Álvarez becomes undisputed super-middleweight world champion again – victory over uncomfortable William Scull paves way for mega-fight with Terence Crawford
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – Saul “Canelo” Álvarez (63-2-2, 39 knockouts) once again wrote his name in the boxing history books on Saturday night. With a unanimous points victory over the previously unbeaten IBF champion William Scull (23-1, 9 knockouts), the Mexican superstar was crowned the undisputed super middleweight world champion once again. The fight was part of the prestigious Riyadh Season in Saudi Arabia.
Alvarez dominates – Scull remains passive
The fight itself offered little action, as Scull acted rather defensively for long stretches of the fight and hardly got involved in exchanges of blows. The crowd and Canelo himself were visibly frustrated by the Cuban’s tactically passive style. Scull only opened up a little in rounds six and seven, but even then his output remained manageable.
The judges scored the fight differently. Danrex Tapdasan saw Canelo clearly ahead with 119-109, while Pablo Gonzalez (115-113) and Ron McNair (116-112) assessed the duel more narrowly. Despite the subdued performance, Álvarez dominated most of the fight and forced Scull to the first defeat of his professional career.
In the ninth round, the referee warned both boxers: “Too much running around!” – a statement that aptly summarized the uneventful dynamic of the fight. Canelo steadily pushed forward, but Scull consistently evaded without engaging in any serious exchanges.
Mega-fight confirmed for September
The official announcement was made immediately after the decision: The highly anticipated superfight will take place on September 12. Canelo will face none other than Terence “Bud” Crawford (41-0, 31 knockouts). The US-American will move up two weight classes – from super welterweight to super middleweight – to face the Mexican champion.
This mega-fight could become a new milestone in modern boxing – a battle between two undisputed world champions from different weight classes.