Canelo Álvarez is set to face William Scull on May 3, 2025, at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in a fight to unify the super middleweight division. Álvarez currently holds the WBA (Super), WBC, WBO, and The Ring titles, while Scull brings the IBF title to the ring. Boxing experts have largely positioned Álvarez as the clear favorite. This consensus is reflected in the betting odds, with Álvarez listed at -3000 and Scull at +1300.
Fighter Profiles
Canelo Álvarez
- Record: 62 wins (39 by KO), 2 losses, 2 draws
- Age: 34
- Height: 171 cm
- Recent Performance: Álvarez is on a four-fight winning streak, with notable victories over Gennady Golovkin, John Ryder, Jermell Charlo, and Jaime Munguia.
William Scull
- Record: 23 wins (9 by KO), 0 losses
- Age: 32
- Height: 182 cm
- Recent Performance: Scull secured the IBF super middleweight title by defeating Vladimir Shishkin via unanimous decision.
Betting Odds and Predictions
Álvarez is the overwhelming favorite, with odds heavily in his favor. For instance, DraftKings lists Álvarez at -3000 and Scull at +1300. Analysts predict a confident win for Álvarez, citing his experience and power as significant advantages. Some anticipate a late-round knockout, while others foresee a unanimous decision victory.
Training and Preparations
Scull has been intensifying his training regimen, incorporating unconventional methods such as using an oxygen machine and adopting a southpaw stance. Despite these efforts, fans and analysts remain skeptical about his readiness, with many predicting an early knockout by Álvarez.
Implications of the Fight
A victory for Álvarez would not only reestablish him as the undisputed super middleweight champion but also set the stage for a highly anticipated fight against Terence Crawford in September. This potential matchup has generated significant interest, with fans and pundits speculating on the outcome.
Experts predictions about the fight
- Sergio Mora, a former world champion, anticipates that Scull may adopt a cautious, spoiler-type strategy, potentially extending the fight to a decision but ultimately not posing a significant threat to Álvarez.
- Fans have expressed skepticism regarding Scull’s readiness, especially after viewing his recent training footage. Some predict an early knockout by Álvarez, citing perceived shortcomings in Scull’s preparation.
- While acknowledging Scull’s height and reach advantages, analysts believe that Álvarez’s experience, power, and tactical acumen will be decisive factors. The general expectation is that Álvarez will secure a victory, either through a late-round knockout or a unanimous decision.
While Scull’s undefeated record and height advantage present an interesting dynamic, the consensus among experts and fans leans heavily towards an Álvarez victory. The boxing community eagerly awaits this unification fight, anticipating its impact on the super middleweight division and future high-profile matchups.