Canelo Alvarez secured his status as the undisputed super-middleweight champion once again after defeating William Scull in a unanimous decision on Sunday (AEST). With this victory, Alvarez, a champion across four weight classes, reclaimed the IBF title that he lost last July when he opted not to contest a mandatory defence against Scull. The fight concluded with all three judges scoring it in favour of the Mexican fighter, at 115-113, 116-112, and 119-109.
At 34 years old, Alvarez’s record now stands at 63 wins, 2 losses, and 2 draws, boasting 39 knockouts. While the match solidified his championship status, it lacked excitement. Scull, the Cuban-born IBF champion, employed a highly mobile strategy, continually evading Alvarez’s attacks, much to the latter’s frustration. Post-fight, Alvarez voiced his dissatisfaction with such defensive tactics but acknowledged the win and expressed his role as a professional athlete.
Shortly after the bout, promotion began for a potential showdown in September between Alvarez and undefeated champion Terence Crawford, sparking considerable anticipation. In the lead-up, Alvarez expressed eagerness to face Crawford, recognising him as one of the top fighters today. Crawford, present in the audience, conveyed his confidence and readiness, stating, “In September, I’m showing the world what greatness looks like.”
Crawford boasts an unbeaten record of 41-0 and has triumphed over elite opponents such as Errol Spence Jr. and Shawn Porter, establishing himself as one of the premier pound-for-pound fighters of his generation. Both fighters’ declarations set the stage for what promises to be an electrifying encounter later this year, as boxing enthusiasts eagerly await the clash of these titans in the ring.