William Scull Decisions Vladimir Shishkin to Win World Title
William Scull (23-0, 9 KOs) achieved his lifelong dream of becoming a world champion as he outpointed Vladimir Shishikin (16-1, 10 KOs) by unanimous decision (116-113, 116-112, 115-113) to win the vacant IBF super middleweight title. Now on Scull’s wishlist is a potential fight with unified 168-pound champion Saul “Canelo” Alvarez.
NOT IMPRESSIVE IN VICTORY
Fighting at the Stadhalle Arena in Falkensee, Germany, Scull versus Shishkin was not the most entertaining of fights. In the early rounds, Shishkin pressed the action behind the jab while Scull relied on his foot movement and quick hands to pot-shot and counter. That was the tone and tenor throughout.
The middle rounds saw Scull become more effective landing combinations from the outside as Shishkin’s work-rate began to dip. Shishkin picked up a second wind during the championship rounds and staged a rally. He was the stronger and fresher fighter at the final bell, while Scull was visibly tired. The judge’s scores didn’t indicate the closeness of the fight. This reporter scored the fight 115-113 for Shishkin in a fight that could have gone either way.
Now a world champion, Scull wants to become the top dog at 168. That means a battle with Canelo at some point. But truthfully, he has to do more to earn a fight with the unified champion. His performance against Shishkin will not have Alvarez shaking in his boots or have the boxing public calling for an Alvarez versus Scull fight anytime soon.
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