The boxing world has been abuzz about the potential showdown between two of its pound-for-pound titans: Canelo Alvarez and Terence Crawford. This potential showdown has captured the imagination of fans and pundits alike, and recent developments suggest that the fight could be closer to reality than ever before.

The latest twist in the story involves a secret meeting between Canelo Alvarez, Terence Crawford, and Turkey Alal Shik, the Saudi boxing magnate. News of this meeting surfaced recently, revealing that the trio discussed the logistics of making this superfight happen. The discussions were intended to be discreet, but an altercation between Alvarez and Crawford nearly derailed the talks. Canelo’s initial demands were deemed unrealistic by Crawford, leading to a brief but heated exchange.

The situation was calmed down by Alal Shik, who stepped in to mediate the discussions. Eventually, an agreement was reached, bringing the fight closer to a successful conclusion. This meeting took place shortly before the Ring Magazine Awards in London, where both fighters were seen in friendly conversations with Alal Shik.

Renowned ESPN Knockout journalist Julius Julianis has reported that Canelo Alvarez and Terence Crawford have agreed, in principle, to face each other. Speculation is that this highly anticipated clash will take place in September in Las Vegas. Turkey’s Alal Shik hinted at the development, suggesting that “2025 will be a crazy year for boxing.”

This potential fight would see two of the best fighters from different weight classes and styles collide. Canelo Alvarez, known for his power and technique at super middleweight, would face Terence Crawford, who has shown his versatility by winning titles in multiple weight divisions.

Canelo Alvarez last defended his unified super middleweight titles in September against Edgar Berlanga, a fight he won convincingly. Alvarez has dominated the super middleweight division since 2021, securing victories against formidable opponents such as Gennadiy Golovkin, Caleb Plant and Jermell Charlo.

Alvarez’s success at super middleweight, coupled with his experience and power, makes him a daunting prospect for anyone who steps into the ring with him. However, his recent fights have shown a decline in knockout power, with his last stoppage coming against Caleb Plant in November 2021.

Terence Crawford, on the other hand, recently claimed the World Boxing Association Super Welterweight Championship by defeating Israel Madrimov. This victory added 154 pounds to the three weight divisions in which he previously won world titles.

Crawford’s move up to 154 pounds has cemented his reputation as one of boxing’s most adaptable and skilled fighters. His recent performances, including a dominant win over Errol Spence Jr. to capture the undisputed welterweight championship, have only served to add to his legend.

One of the main talking points surrounding this potential fight is the dramatic weight difference. Terence Crawford would have to move up two weight classes to face Canelo at super middleweight. It’s a monumental task, as Crawford would have to overcome Canelo’s size and power advantages.

Amir Khan, who has fought both Alvarez and Crawford, highlighted this concern, stressing the importance of weight divisions. Khan’s own experience against Alvarez, which ended in a knockout, serves as a cautionary tale. He noted that while Crawford is immensely skilled, Alvarez’s physique at super middleweight presents a significant danger.

Boxing analysts are divided on how Crawford can handle the challenge posed by Canelo. While some, such as Shakur Stevenson and Timothy Bradley Jr., believe Crawford’s style is perfect for overcoming Canelo, others are more skeptical. Stevenson’s confidence in Crawford stems from his belief in Crawford’s superior technical abilities and strategic acumen.

Crawford’s usual approach is to use his jab, quick movement and counterpunches to control the fight. This tactic, as Bradley noted, could frustrate Canelo, who is known for his lower output and reliance on power punches. However, Crawford’s aggressive performance against Errol Spence Jr. was an exception, tailored to Spence’s vulnerabilities following the accident.

Bradley also stressed that Canelo’s recent performances haven’t featured the same knockout power, which could play in Crawford’s favor if he can stay mobile and avoid loud exchanges.

Crawford’s team, led by trainer Brian McIntyre, would likely devise a strategy similar to the one Dmitry Bivol used to defeat Canelo. Bivol’s approach was to make Cane 

Crawford’s footwork and dictation of the fight from distance could be crucial to implementing this game plan.

McIntyre has expressed confidence in Crawford’s ability to defeat Canelo, noting that studying previous fights, particularly Canelo’s losses to Bivol and Mayweather, would be key. By forcing Canelo to move and counter his hooks with straight punches, Crawford could wear him down the stretch.

For Canelo, the challenge will be to nullify Crawford’s movement and impose his physicality. His ability to cut off the ring and land effective power shots will be critical. Alvarez’s experience and ring intelligence give him the tools to adapt and overcome different styles, but Crawford presents a unique challenge.

Shakur Stevenson, the current WBC lightweight champion, has been vocal about his belief in Crawford’s ability to win. He maintains that Crawford’s style is tailor-made to beat Canelo and has been saying so for years. Stevenson’s confidence in Crawford stems from a deep understanding of his abilities and the strategic advantages he believes Crawford possesses.

Hall of Famer and ESPN analyst Timothy Bradley Jr. shares Stevenson’s view. Bradley highlighted Crawford’s strategic approach, counterpunching skills and ability to slow down opponents’ output. He believes Crawford’s superior boxing IQ and adaptability make him a formidable opponent for Canelo.

Legendary boxing trainer and analyst Teddy Atlas also favors Crawford in this matchup. Atlas praised Crawford’s willingness to challenge himself and his ability to come up with effective game plans. He believes Crawford will come up with a strategy to neutralize Canelo’s strengths and exploit his weaknesses.

A win for either fighter would significantly enhance their legacy. For Canelo, defeating Crawford would add another chapter to his storied career, reinforcing his dominance at super middleweight and showcasing his ability to outbox one of the most skilled fighters of this generation.

For Crawford, a win over Canelo would be monumental. It would cement his status as one of the greatest fighters of all time, demonstrating his versatility and ability to conquer challenges in multiple weight divisions. It would also prove that technical skill and strategic acumen can prevail over size and power.

As the boxing world anxiously awaits official confirmation, the prospect of a Canelo Alvarez-Terence Crawford showdown continues to generate excitement and debate. Both fighters bring unique strengths and challenges, making this potential fight one of the most intriguing in recent memory.

Whether Crawford can overcome Canelo’s physical advantages or whether Alvarez’s power and experience will prove too much to handle remains to be seen. What is certain is that, if this fight does take place, it promises to be a historic event that will captivate boxing fans around the world.

Stay tuned for more updates as more details emerge about this potential boxing blockbuster.