Unified super middleweight champion Saul “Canelo” Alvarez, once revered as boxing’s most prominent figure, faces growing criticism from fans and pundits alike. The announcement of his upcoming match against William Scull on May 3 in Saudi Arabia has sparked widespread disapproval. This contest, part of a four-fight deal with Riyadh Season, is viewed by many as another step in Alvarez's decline from facing top-tier competition. Despite the potential for Canelo to become a two-time undisputed champion, the opposition's lack of recognition casts doubt on the significance of this achievement.

The Mexican star's career trajectory has seen a noticeable shift since November 2021, when he secured the undisputed title at 168 pounds by defeating Caleb Plant. Since then, Alvarez has primarily engaged in bouts against less formidable opponents. A notable exception was his encounter with Dmitry Bivol in May 2022, which ended in a unanimous decision loss for Canelo. This outcome highlighted the fighter's vulnerability and fueled calls for him to face tougher challenges, such as David Benavidez. However, these demands were met with excuses rather than action, leading Benavidez to move up to the light heavyweight division.

Further controversy arose when rumors surfaced about negotiations between Alvarez and YouTube sensation Jake Paul, an individual with limited credentials in professional boxing. Such discussions only added fuel to the fire of discontent surrounding Canelo's fight selection. Even if Alvarez triumphs over Scull, his next possible bout against junior middleweight champion Terence “Bud” Crawford raises concerns due to the size difference between the two fighters.

In the past, Alvarez was known for seeking out and confronting the best talent within his weight class. Now, at 34 years old, he appears more aligned with mainstream commercial interests than competitive integrity. While his legacy as a future Hall of Famer remains secure, his recent choices have tarnished his reputation among dedicated boxing enthusiasts. The contrast between his current path and his earlier dedication to challenging fights underscores a significant evolution in his approach to the sport.