Canelo Álvarez easily defeated William Scull in a unanimous points decision on Sunday, reclaiming the undisputed super middleweight championship. The 34-year-old Mexican boxer, a four-weight world champion, entered the fight holding the WBA, WBC, and WBO titles at 168 pounds. Although Álvarez had lost the IBF belt last July after failing to defend it against Scull, he now re-unified the titles, becoming a two-time undisputed champion in the division.
The judges scored the fight 115-113, 116-112, and 119-109, giving Álvarez the clear victory, though the bout didn’t quite live up to the expectations many had for the match-up. Despite being widely seen as the stronger, more skilled fighter, Álvarez had to deal with a challenging style from Scull. The IBF champion kept a high level of movement throughout the fight, constantly shifting and evading Álvarez’s attempts to close the distance. This elusive approach frustrated Álvarez, who admitted that he disliked facing fighters with such a style. Although Scull was busy throwing punches, he struggled to land anything significant. Álvarez, on the other hand, remained composed and focused, landing powerful body shots and keeping his cool in the face of Scull’s movement.
The fight took place in Riyadh, marking Álvarez’s first bout outside of the US or Mexico. To accommodate the time zone difference, the fight was scheduled for 6:20 am local time, which allowed it to air during prime time on the US west coast. This unusual timing added to the challenge for both fighters, but Álvarez managed to adjust better than Scull. The slow pace of the early rounds was expected, as both fighters sought to find their rhythm, but as the rounds progressed, it was clear that Álvarez had a significant edge. He controlled the center of the ring and showed his trademark patience, letting Scull wear himself out while looking for openings to land heavy, damaging punches.
Although Scull was moving continuously, his punches lacked precision and power, making it difficult for him to gain any foothold in the fight. Álvarez, on the other hand, didn’t rush, knowing he had the advantage and waiting for the right moments to strike. He repeatedly found success with his body shots, which drained Scull’s energy and hindered his movement, making it easier for Álvarez to close the gap and land more significant blows.
Despite the lack of drama in the fight itself, the announcement of Álvarez’s next opponent stole some of the spotlight. Immediately after the decision was announced, the promotional campaign for a September showdown between Álvarez and Terence Crawford began. This highly anticipated fight between two of boxing’s biggest names has been in the works for some time, and it promises to be a thrilling contest. With Álvarez’s victory, all attention now shifts toward this clash, as boxing fans eagerly await one of the most exciting matchups in recent years.
Álvarez’s ability to handle the time zone differences and remain patient throughout the fight underscored his experience and mental strength, as he continues to cement his legacy as one of the sport’s best. The matchup with Crawford, however, represents an entirely new challenge. Crawford, known for his skill and versatility, will bring a different set of problems to the table for Álvarez, but for now, the Mexican superstar can enjoy his latest victory as he prepares for the showdown of his career in September.
