Dsalita Two weeks ago, the IBF mandated that Canelo Alvarez defend his title against mandatory challenger William Scull, potentially disrupting his planned September match with Edgar Berlanga. According to Jake Donovan, Scull’s team has now requested an immediate purse bid, set for June 6th by the sanctioning body.
Donovan notes that the IBF and WBA are still determining the order of challengers. Alvarez, who holds both belts, has not fulfilled a mandatory defense of either title since winning them. While he has held the WBA belt for longer, Scull won his eliminator nearly two years ago, while Berlanga was recently named the top contender.
If the IBF successfully enforces their claim, which seems probable given their professionalism compared to the chaotic WBA, Canelo’s choices are limited. He must either take a fight of little interest, relinquish the belt, or compensate Scull to withdraw. These are not ideal options, but they are a consequence of his lack of mandatory defenses in recent years.
