New York City, NY – On March 6, 2025, boxing superstar Saul “Canelo” Alvarez and IBF super middleweight champion William Scull stepped onto the stage at Radio City Music Hall for their first official press conference, marking the launch of their highly anticipated undisputed title fight. Scheduled for May 3, 2025, at the ANB Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, this clash promises to be a defining moment in the super middleweight division as Canelo aims to reclaim his status as the undisputed champion.

The press conference, held in front of a buzzing crowd, showcased the contrasting personalities of the two fighters. Canelo, the Mexican icon with a record of 62-2-2 (39 KOs), exuded confidence and charisma. Dressed sharply, he spoke briefly about his excitement for the fight, emphasizing his desire to put on a spectacle for fans in Saudi Arabia. “I’m ready to prepare myself and give a great show in Riyadh,” Canelo said through a translator. “This is a new experience for me, and I’m sure the whole world is Canelo territory.” His lighthearted mention of Turki Alalshikh, the chairman of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority and a key figure in arranging the bout, drew smiles from the audience.

On the other side, William Scull, the undefeated Cuban champion with a record of 23-0 (9 KOs), appeared determined to seize the opportunity of a lifetime. Making his first defense of the IBF title, which he won against Vladimir Shishkin in October 2024, Scull expressed confidence in his abilities. “I’m the other world champion at 168 pounds—there’s no one else,” Scull declared boldly. “I’ve fought in different countries already, so this is nothing new to me. I’m going to shut everybody up.” His words hinted at an intent to prove doubters wrong and establish himself as a legitimate threat to Canelo’s dominance.

The face-off that followed was intense yet composed. Canelo, known for his stoic demeanor, stared down Scull, who stood slightly taller and matched the champion’s gaze with equal intensity. There were no theatrics—just two fighters sizing each other up, fully aware of the stakes. For Canelo, the fight represents a chance to unify the WBA, WBC, WBO, and IBF titles once more, having vacated the IBF belt last year rather than face Scull as a mandatory challenger. For Scull, it’s an opportunity to shock the boxing world and cement his name among the sport’s elite.

The event also underscored the growing influence of Riyadh Season, with this bout marking Canelo’s first fight in Saudi Arabia and the beginning of a lucrative four-fight deal. The press conference featured notable undercard announcements, including a heavyweight clash between Martin Bakole and Efe Ajagba, adding further excitement to the May 3 card.

As the press conference concluded, the stage was set for a compelling showdown. Canelo, a four-division world champion and one of boxing’s biggest stars, remains the heavy favorite. However, Scull’s undefeated record and slick, awkward style could pose an unexpected challenge. With the fight just under two months away, anticipation is building for what could be a historic night in Riyadh.