Canelo Alvarez appeared at New York City’s Radio City Music Hall on Thursday to assure fans he’s not getting it easy in his next fight.
After a potential David Benavidez fight failed, the Mexican superstar responded to complaints that William Scull was a ‘nobody.’ Canelo bids to become undisputed champion at super middleweight for the second time when taking back his IBF title on May 3.
Canelo [62-2-2, 39 KOs] heads to Saudi Arabia to face Scull [23-0, 9 KOs] in his first bout outside North America when he participates in Riyadh Season at Anb Arena. A win for the four-weight world champion would set up a massive collision with Terence Crawford in Las Vegas this September.
However, the WBC, WBO, and WBA ruler refused to look ahead, as he stated that the Cuban Scull is a tough test.
“It’s going to be a difficult fight against a complicated style of boxing like the Cuban style. I’m going to try my best to hurt my opponent on May 3,” said Canelo. “Fighting in Saudi Arabia is something new for me, but I’m ready to fight anywhere because Canelo’s territory is everywhere worldwide.”
On Crawford, he added, “I’m not thinking about September. I’m 100% focused on Scull for May 3. I’m grateful for all of you coming out here to support me. Let’s make history.”
Canelo’s manager and trainer, Eddy Reynoso, is adamant Scull is one of the most skilled boxers at the weight.
“We are going to be up against the Cuban school of boxing, which is among the best in the world and a World Champion. We respect both Scull and his team very much,” said Reynoso.
“We’ll work hard as always with a lot of discipline and effort. Canelo is always at the gym. We will be undisputed for a second time.”
Scull, who won the vacant IBF belt against Vladimir Shishkin in October, stated, “I’m thrilled to be here. And I’m ready to show the world that we can.
“Nothing comes easy in boxing. Everyone knows that. Everything I’ve earned has been through shutting doubters up. I feel firm and sure of myself, and the winner on May 3 won’t be decided until the final round.”
On what will help him take his shot at becoming a four-belt champion, Scull added, “I rely on my fundamentals. I’ve sacrificed a lot to be here.
“I want people to know that anything is possible. I’m a humble warrior who is proud to represent my fellow Cubans, and I’m ready to shock the world with an upset on May 3.”
Coach Franquois Aidama added, “We are working hard. We know that Canelo is one of the best ever, but you are going to see the best of William Scull on May 3.”
Canelo’s recent victories included decisions over Jermell Charlo, Edgar Berlanga, and Jaime Munguia following a not-so-shocking defeat to Dmitry Bivol via unanimous decision.
The Mexico hero from Guadalajara is poised to end his career in style after signing a three-fight deal with Turki Alalshikh that could include a rematch with Bivol.
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Read all articles and exclusive interviews by Phil Jay. Learn more about the author, experienced boxing writer, and World Boxing News Editor since 2010.
