Turki speaks out after William Scull exposes $500 million bond scandal

The boxing world is in turmoil following new accusations from William Scull, the former Cuban champion who faced Saúl “Canelo” Álvarez on May 3, 2025. Scull has revealed an alleged $500 million bonus scandal, claiming that Turki Al-Alshikh, president of “Riyadh Season,” rigged his fight against Canelo to protect business interests, including a multimillion-dollar bonus tied to Canelo’s upcoming fight against Terence Crawford in September. Now, Turki has responded, but his statements have only intensified the controversy.

The 500 million accusation

William Scull, who had already caused a stir by claiming that Al-Alshikh asked him not to win his fight against Canelo in May, has escalated his accusations. In a shocking interview, the Cuban claimed that he was offered a portion of a $500 million bonus in exchange for not mistreating Canelo. “I was in my locker room before the fight when Al-Alshikh arrived. He told me, ‘Don’t mistreat him, we have other plans.’ He then insinuated that there would be an incentive if I let Canelo win his fight with Crawford,” a visibly frustrated Scull recounted. According to him, the goal was to ensure that Canelo would go undefeated in September, securing earnings from an event that could exceed $600 million.

Scull claims to have evidence, such as text messages, that he will present to the sporting authorities. This accusation raises suspicions of financial manipulation to an unprecedented level, suggesting that boxing is being manipulated by economic interests beyond the sport.

Turki’s reaction: defense or intimidation?

After nearly two weeks of silence, Turki Al-Alshikh finally spoke out this Saturday, May 17, denying the accusations. In a statement, the Saudi tycoon called Scull’s statements “defamatory lies” and announced legal action for defamation. “I will not allow my name or Riyadh Season’s name to be tarnished by these falsehoods. Scull was fairly paid for her fight, and there is no evidence of any illicit dealings,” Al-Alshikh asserted. However, his threatening tone and the lack of an independent investigation have raised questions. Is this a sincere defense or an attempt to silence Scull?

Sources close to Riyadh Season indicate that Al-Alshikh is furious and could pressure boxing organizations to discredit the Cuban. But the establishment that presents Al-Alshikh as a benefactor of boxing must be questioned: If the $500 million bonuses exist, who else is involved? Was Canelo aware of them?

Canelo’s silence and the fans’ fury

Canelo Álvarez, who defeated Scull by unanimous decision on May 3 at the ANB Arena in Riyadh, has yet to comment directly. His team reiterated: “Saúl is an athlete of integrity who wins through hard work. These accusations are absurd and will be challenged legally.” However, the Mexican’s silence in the face of a scandal of this magnitude fuels speculation. Is Canelo a victim of Al-Alshikh’s schemes, or did he know about the alleged bonuses?

On social media, the hashtag #Escándalo500Millones has gone viral, with fans divided. “If this is true, Canelo and Turki are frauds,” wrote one user. Another defended the Mexican: “Scull is making excuses because he lost. Without proof, I don’t believe him!” The World Boxing Association (WBA) has promised to investigate, but its impartiality is questioned due to Saudi influence in boxing.

A turning point for boxing?

This scandal comes at a delicate time for boxing, a sport already marked by corruption. For Scull, it’s a fight for justice: “I don’t care if they hate me. The world needs to know the truth about these fights.” While Al-Alshikh threatens lawsuits and Canelo remains silent, the boxing community awaits answers. Will this mark the end of the Canelo era, or will he emerge unscathed? What is certain is that May 16, 2025, has placed boxing under unprecedented scrutiny.

What do you think about this scandal? Do you think Scull is telling the truth or making excuses? Share your thoughts in the comments and spread the word about this explosive news.