Noel Mikaelian to Challenge Badou Jack for WBC Cruiserweight Title on May 3 in Riyadh

MIAMI, FL – A high-stakes showdown is set for May 3 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, as WBC Cruiserweight Champion Badou Jack defends his title against former champion Noel Mikaelian. The fight will take place on the undercard of the Canelo Alvarez vs. William Scull event, adding another marquee matchup to an already stacked card.

Mikaelian’s Bid to Reclaim His Title

Mikaelian, who was previously declared WBC Champion in Recess, will attempt to reclaim the belt after the WBC officially awarded the title to Jack. The Armenian-born fighter steps in as a replacement for Ryan Rozicki, who was forced to withdraw due to an injury sustained in training.

Jack’s First Title Defense

Jack, a three-division world champion, was reinstated as the WBC Cruiserweight Champion in late 2024. This bout marks his first title defense since winning the belt in February 2023, when he stopped Ilunga Junior Makabu in the 12th round.

Fight Card & Event Details

The Jack vs. Mikaelian clash will be part of the Canelo Alvarez vs. William Scull fight card, which features several high-profile matchups, including a super middleweight rematch between Bruno Surace and Jaime Munguia