Canelo Alvarez Fights for Undisputed Title Amid Controversy

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia — Canelo Alvarez took center stage today at a press conference announcing his anticipated fight against IBF super middleweight champion William Scull on May 3, 2025, at The Venue. The event, overshadowed by an unexpected request from promoter Turki Alalshikh, raised questions about future matchups and promotional strategies.

During the press conference, Turki Alalshikh, who is launching a new boxing league with UFC president Dana White, notably shook his head when Canelo’s trainer, Eddy Reynoso, attempted to bring the WBC belt onto the stage for photos. This gesture led to speculation about Turki’s intentions regarding Alvarez’s quest for undisputed status.

Canelo, a three-belt champion (WBA, WBC, WBO) with a record of 62 wins, 2 losses, and 2 draws, currently holds the opportunity to capture the IBF title from the undefeated Scull (23-0, 9 KOs). Although Turki Alalshikh supports the idea of Canelo becoming undisputed champion, he simultaneously expressed a desire to acknowledge only one belt in his new boxing league.

“I want one belt per division,” Turki said, creating a dichotomy between his goals and the traditional championship structure. This raises a critical question: why pursue the IBF title if his league doesn’t recognize it? Canelo could easily ignore Scull’s title, positioning himself as the champion within Turki’s framework.

The ambiguity continued when Canelo was asked about his focus on Scull versus the media attention surrounding a potential fight with Terence Crawford on September 13. “My priority is 100% on William Scull. He is a good fighter, and I need to beat him first,” Canelo stated, avoiding distractions from the looming match that could cement his legacy.

Canelo also expressed determination regarding his upcoming fight, dismissing any speculation on the Crawford matchup. “First is May, and then we’ll see. I’m not looking past anyone,” he added, underscoring his dedication to preparing for Scull.

Observers noted that while the promotion of Canelo’s fight against Crawford was at the forefront of Turki’s agenda, Canelo seems unfazed, focusing squarely on his performance against Scull. “I think this fight will be bigger than the Mayweather fight,” Canelo noted optimistically, dismissing doubts about its potential.

The press conference also highlighted the contrasting views on boxing tradition, as Turki’s modern approach seeks to reshape how champions and victories are perceived in the sport. Critics argue that an aging Crawford, who debuted at a lower weight class and has not established himself at 168, should earn a title shot through rigorous competition.

“Crawford needs to prove himself at this weight, just like every fighter before him,” one analyst commented after the event. “Moving up two divisions for a title shot without clearing the gauntlet of contenders is unfair to fighters who have been waiting for their chance.”

In the shifting landscape of boxing, Alvarez’s path to another title may rely more on immediate focus and performance against Scull than on future big fights. “You know what I need to do, and Scull is the next step,” Canelo emphasized during the press event.

As the fight date approaches, the boxing community remains divided, with some eager for the spectacle of Canelo versus Crawford while others argue for a focus on Alvarez’s upcoming match.