Undisputed super middleweight champion Saul "Canelo" Alvarez finds himself in a peculiar situation. While his sights are set on mega-fights, the IBF is pushing for him to defend his IBF title against mandatory challenger William Scull (22-0, 9 KOs).
IBF Orders Purse Bid:
On Monday, the IBF ordered a purse bid for the Canelo-Scull fight after negotiations between the camps failed to reach an agreement. The purse bid will be held on June 6th in New Jersey.
Scull: A Controversial Choice?
Many boxing insiders consider Scull, a relatively unknown fighter with a recent win over Sean Hemphill, a weak opponent for Canelo's caliber. This is further complicated by the fact that the WBA also has its own mandatory challenger, Edgar Berlanga, potentially pushing Scull aside.
Canelo's Dream Fights:
While the IBF and WBA jostle for mandatory position, Canelo has his eyes on bigger prizes. Potential opponents include:
David Benavidez: An exciting matchup between two undefeated champions.
Terence Crawford: A potential cross-divisional superfight, if Crawford wins his upcoming bout.
Saudi Arabia Showdown: Talks are ongoing for a lucrative fight in Saudi Arabia against an unnamed opponent.
Next Steps:
The IBF and WBA will need to clarify which mandatory challenger has priority. Meanwhile, Canelo's team explores options for a September fight weekend, potentially aligning with Mexican Independence Day.
The Verdict:
While a mandatory defense against Scull might not be the most electrifying option, Canelo's future holds the promise of blockbuster fights against some of boxing's biggest names.