10/16/2024
Cuban boxing could add a new world champion this Saturday, when William “El Indomable” Scull faces Russian Vladimir Shishkin for the vacant IBF Super Middleweight Championship. The fight, which will take place in Falkensee, Germany, will have the title vacated by Canelo Álvarez on the line. Álvarez relinquished the title after opting for a bout against Edgar Berlanga.
Photo Credit: AGON Sports
Scull, born in Cuba and now based in Germany, has followed a long road to reach this world title opportunity. He became the mandatory challenger in 2022 after defeating Russian Evgeny Shvedenko by unanimous decision in a title eliminator. His career has been marked by steady growth, always under the guidance of his Cuban coach, Franquis Aldama.
On May 4th, Scull gained more visibility by participating in the Las Vegas undercard headlined by Canelo Álvarez vs. Jaime Munguía. The Cuban defeated American Sean Hemphill, again by unanimous decision.
With 22 victories and 9 knockouts, "El Indomable" has proven himself more than capable of facing tough challenges. Now, as he prepares to face his toughest opponent yet, Scull remains determined: "I feel very happy with everyone’s support, especially from my family. Ten years ago, my coach and I set out with this dream, the goal of becoming World Champion, and now we are on the verge of achieving it."
Photo Credit: Salita Promotions
In the opposite corner is Vladimir Shishkin, a 33-year-old Russian based in Florida, who also comes in undefeated (16-0, 10 KOs). Shishkin has built his path with victories against similarly mid-level opponents, facing fighters such as DeAndre Ware, Sena Agbeko, and Venezuelan José Uzcategui.
Shishkin earned his place as a title contender after defeating Mike Guy by technical knockout in an eliminator on March 28. For him, this fight represents a unique opportunity to become world champion and perhaps later demand a unification bout with Canelo.
This matchup is expected to be highly competitive, with both fighters looking to maintain their undefeated records and claim the coveted world title. Scull has shown the technical skill, endurance, and strategy needed to face opponents of this level, while Shishkin brings a punching power that cannot be underestimated.
William, with his determination and his dream on the verge of becoming a reality, said: "On the 19th, we will surprise the world." If he emerges victorious, he will join Erislandy Lara, who holds the WBA middleweight world title, as one of only two current Cuban world champions.
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