The boxing world turns its attention to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, tonight, May 3, 2025, as Saul “Canelo” Alvarez returns to the ring to defend his WBA, WBC, and WBO super middleweight titles and attempt to reclaim the IBF crown against undefeated challenger William Scull. With the ring walks expected around 11 p.m. ET, fans are eagerly awaiting one of the most talked-about bouts of the year. As excitement builds, predictions for the Canelo Alvarez vs William Scull fight are pouring in, with most experts forecasting a decisive win for the Mexican superstar.
Predictions for the Canelo Alvarez vs William Scull Fight: Odds and Expectations
Canelo Alvarez (62-2-2, 39 KOs) enters the bout as a heavy favorite, with odds currently sitting at -3000, meaning bettors would need to wager $3,000 just to win $100. In contrast, William Scull (23-0, 9 KOs), despite his unbeaten record, is a massive underdog at +1400. Oddsmakers clearly expect Alvarez to control the fight from the opening bell.
The over/under for total rounds is set at 9.5, with a slight lean toward Over (-125), reflecting expectations that the fight could go into the later rounds. For method of victory, Canelo by KO/TKO is favored at -200 to -225, while a win by decision is priced between +160 and +180. The odds for the fight to go the distance sit at +166, suggesting a stoppage remains the more likely scenario.
Expert Predictions for the Canelo Alvarez vs William Scull Fight
Most boxing analysts agree: Canelo Alvarez is expected to dominate. Scull, though undefeated, is seen as lacking the speed, power, and ring IQ to trouble the experienced champion. Canelo’s ability to control tempo, cut off the ring, and land punishing body shots are expected to wear Scull down over time.
One of the most common predictions for the Canelo Alvarez vs William Scull fight is a late-round stoppage. Canelo has made a career of breaking down his opponents and finishing fights in the championship rounds. Many experts point to rounds 7 through 12 as the likely window for a TKO or KO, citing Canelo’s methodical style and Scull’s limited defensive tools.
However, some pundits believe a decision is also possible, especially given Canelo’s recent trend of going the distance. His most recent bouts have highlighted a more measured, tactical approach, focusing on control rather than all-out aggression. Even in that scenario, Canelo is still expected to score knockdowns and win comfortably on the judges’ scorecards.
What Scull Brings to the Fight
While William Scull remains unbeaten, he has yet to face a fighter even close to Alvarez’s caliber. His 23-0 record includes just nine knockouts, which raises concerns about his ability to keep Canelo honest with power shots. His offensive output is solid but not overwhelming, and his defensive technique has shown vulnerabilities against lesser opponents.
Still, Scull is a game fighter, and his supporters point out that his youth and hunger could push him to rise to the occasion. However, most experts agree that even a motivated and durable Scull is unlikely to overcome the experience, power, and precision of Alvarez.
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What’s Next for Canelo?
If Canelo wins, as expected, attention will quickly turn to a potential blockbuster bout with Terence Crawford later this year. That fight, between two of the best pound-for-pound fighters of the era, would be one of the most significant boxing events in recent memory. But first, Canelo must take care of business in Riyadh.
In summary, predictions for the Canelo Alvarez vs William Scull fight overwhelmingly favor a Canelo victory, either by late stoppage or wide decision. Scull is a respectable contender, but few believe he poses a serious threat to the undisputed super middleweight champion. Tonight’s fight will reveal whether Scull can defy the odds—or if Canelo continues his reign atop the division.