CANELO Alvarez and William Scull are set for their Riyadh rumble as the Mexican seeks to resume undisputed status at 168 pounds. Canelo wants his old IBF title back. Cuba’s Scull is seeking to cause a seismic upset.
Who will join them in Saudi Arabia? Let’s have a look at the undercard line-up.
Bruno Surace vs. Jaime Munguia 2
After landing the punch of his life, perceived non-puncher Surace gets a rematch payday and the chance to prove their first fight was no fluke. Jaime Munguia will think otherwise. Now he has the opportunity to immediately right the wrongs of that shock KO loss to the Frenchman in December and get back on the title trail.
Efe Ajagba vs. Martin Bakole
Not even two months since he was drafted in to get bopped by Joseph Parker, Congolese ‘Boogeyman’ Bakole is back in an all-African affair. Both men can punch, have looked impressive at times during their respective careers and both have shown vulnerability. It’s unlikely to last long. The pair had plenty to say during a trash-talking final press conference.
Badou Jack vs. Noel Mikaelyan
The WBC cruiserweight title has been flashed about since Oleksandr Usyk exited the division and left it for Ilunga Makabu, who lost it by knockout to Badou Jack in 2023. After Jack disappeared, Noel Gevor Mikaelyan took hold of it, also from Makabu. Now, Gevor steps in with Jack after Ryan Rozicki and Yamil Peralta fought to a draw for the Interim crown. What a complicated situation.
Best of the Rest
Paris 2024 Olympic silver medallist Marco Verde makes his pro debut with a six-round middleweight affair against Michel Polina. Big things are expected of Verde under Canelo’s wing.
Brayan Leon takes on Aaron Guerrero over six rounds at light-heavyweight. Leon, 22, has knocked out all six victims, making a name for himself as a banger.
Richard Riakporhe’s heavyweight journey is all set to get up and running after the Lawrence Okolie false start. The Londoner is expected to engage in a low-key bout.
