Terence Crawford and Canelo Alvarez have danced around the idea of a potential showdown for a while. For hardcore fans and analysts this would be a mouthwatering contest between the top two pound for pound boxers. Canelo is a much bigger fighter and when asked about this fight; he seems to neglect the idea of fighting Crawford.
In an interview five months ago with FightHype after the Berlanga vs Alvarez kick-off presser, Canelo was asked about his thoughts on the Terence Crawford versus Israil Madrimov 154 lbs championship bout where he responded with “he lost”. Canelo was not impressed and he further elaborated stating “I think he knows why there’s weight classes there, right? He make a good fight, but for me I think he lost the fight. Or draw. It could have been the other side” (Morgan, 2025). The boxing world has been anticipating exciting news in regards to both fighters’ next moves.
Fighter Profile’s
- Canelo Alvarez: Otherwise known as Saúl Álvarez fights in the 168 lbs division where he became the undisputed super middleweight champion in 2021 until July 2024. Since 2020, he has held the ring magazine belt. Canelo is a complete fighter that combines accurate body punching with slick defense, and counter punching ability. Canelo has extensive experience with all styles inside the ring and has been a professional since the age of 16.
- Terence Crawford: Known as “Bud Crawford” is the current WBA and WBO 154 lbs champion as well as a former undisputed champion in two weight classes and is one of three male boxers in the four belt era to hold this distinction. Crawford has spent the majority of his career in the 140 to 147 lbs divisions. Terence Crawford is one of the most versatile boxers of this generation. He can switch stances, is an exceptional counter-puncher and has a high ring iq. Terence’s welterweight run consisting of 8 stoppages is a testament to his exceptional skills.
Fight Dynamic’s
- Pressure vs movement: Canelo is a pressure fighter that likes to systematically break his opponents down. He will try to close the distance and make Crawford pay for any inactivity. Crawford needs to utilize his elite footwork and jab to keep Canelo at range where he can pick him apart.
- Power difference: Canelo has moved up several weight classes and has stopped much larger opponents, if Canelo can land those brutal body shots it could be a short night for Terence Crawford. Terence Crawford’s chin has been tested but never against an opponent as physically imposing as Canelo. Throughout Crawford’s legendary career he has shown the discipline and resiliency that makes for a great champion. This will be an intriguing dynamic.
- Crawford’s versatility: Terence Crawford is one of the greatest switch hitters of all time. Crawford’s ability to seamlessly transition between orthodox and southpaw creates angles for Terence to showcase his brilliant offensive abilities. Crawford is also exceptional at recognizing patterns to capitalize on an opponent’s mistake. For Crawford to win, he will need to be a smooth operator in that ring and frustrate Canelo.
Terence Crawford has the better skillset but he needs to remain disciplined and be perfect for all 12 rounds. Any signs of weakness and Canelo will be ready to pounce. The higher weight classes favor Canelo; Terence versus Canelo would need to take place at 160 to give Terence a fair shot. Moving up to a new weight-class would likely hamper Crawford’s speed and athletic abilities. There are too many variables to consider in this matchup and the result depends on the weight-class because with the right gameplan, a master boxer like Crawford could pull off the upset.
Bibliography:
Lowe, K (2025) Tim Bradley Is Certain Who wins Canelo vs Terence Crawford: “He’s Going To Destroy Him” Image retrieved from: Tim Bradley Is Certain Who Wins Canelo vs Terence Crawford: “He’s Going To Destroy Him”
Morgan, T (2025) Canelo Alvarez Sums Up Terence Crawford’s Last Performance Against Madrimov In Just 2 Words – retrieved from:
https://www.secondsout.com/news/canelo-on-crawford-performance-vs-madrimov/
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