Canelo Alvarez vs. William Scull: A Comprehensive Review

The boxing community held its breath as Canelo Alvarez and William Scull faced off in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, for the undisputed super middleweight title. This eagerly anticipated bout, streamed live on DAZN PPV, was more than just a fight; it was a strategic move in Canelo’s career, marking his first international bout outside of Mexico and the U.S. This event also set the stage for an even more monumental clash in September against Terence Crawford. Let’s explore the intricacies of this historic encounter.

The Road to the Ring

Canelo Alvarez, the reigning WBA, WBC, and WBO champion, was stripped of his IBF title last fall. This decision came after he chose to fight Edgar Berlanga instead of defending his title against Scull. This move paved the way for William Scull to secure the IBF title by outpointing Vladimir Shishkin. The stage was set for a unification bout that would crown the undisputed super middleweight champion.

The Main Event

The main event began with Canelo Alvarez and William Scull stepping into the ring at the ANB Arena in Riyadh. The fight was broadcasted live, with the pay-per-view starting at 5:45 p.m. ET. The atmosphere was electric, and fans worldwide tuned in to witness the clash of titans.

Round-by-Round Analysis

The fight was a tactical battle from the outset. Canelo, known for his power and precision, found it challenging to connect with Scull, who was elusive and defensive. Scull’s jab was effective, but Canelo’s body shots and hooks kept the pressure on. The rounds were closely contested, with both fighters having moments of dominance.

In the eighth round, Canelo landed a significant left hook and a body shot in the corner, showcasing his experience and ring IQ. Despite Scull’s efforts, Canelo’s superior technique and power were evident throughout the fight. The eighth round was a turning point, highlighting Canelo’s ability to adapt and capitalize on opportunities.

The Judges’ Verdict

The judges’ scorecards reflected the close nature of the fight, with Canelo securing a unanimous decision. The scores were 115-113, 116-112, and 119-109 in favor of Canelo. The wide margin in the third scorecard was a surprise, but it underscored Canelo’s dominance in key moments. The decision was a testament to Canelo’s ability to control the fight and land crucial blows when it mattered most.

The Aftermath and Future Prospects

With the victory, Canelo Alvarez became the undisputed super middleweight champion for the second time in his career. This win also set the stage for an epic showdown against Terence Crawford, scheduled for September 12 at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. The boxing world is already buzzing with excitement about this potential fight of the year.

The Crawford Showdown

The announcement of the Crawford fight was met with enthusiasm from fans and analysts alike. Sergio Mora, a renowned boxing analyst, described the matchup as “fantastic,” highlighting the contrast between Crawford’s speed and switch-hitting ability and Canelo’s power and experience. This fight promises to be a thrilling battle between two of the sport’s greatest pound-for-pound fighters.

The contrast in styles between Crawford and Canelo adds an extra layer of intrigue. Crawford’s agility and technical prowess will be tested against Canelo’s relentless pressure and power. The fight is expected to be a tactical chess match, with both fighters looking to exploit each other’s weaknesses. The outcome could very well hinge on who adapts better to the other’s style.

Conclusion

A New Era of Boxing

The Canelo Alvarez vs. William Scull fight was a pivotal moment in the careers of both fighters. For Canelo, it was a step towards cementing his legacy as one of the greatest boxers of all time. For Scull, it was a chance to prove himself on the world stage. The fight may not have been a classic, but it served its purpose in setting the stage for an even bigger showdown.

As the boxing world looks ahead to the Crawford fight, the excitement is palpable. Canelo Alvarez has once again proven his worth, and the stage is set for another historic night in the ring. The journey of Canelo Alvarez continues, and fans worldwide are eager to see what the future holds for this boxing legend. The upcoming fight against Crawford will not only determine the next champion but also shape the future of the sport. The world watches with bated breath, anticipating a clash that could redefine the landscape of boxing.