Floyd Mayweather analyzes Canelo Álvarez vs. Terence Crawford: a battle of power and precision
The boxing world is abuzz with excitement about the potential megafight between Canelo Álvarez and Terence Crawford. This matchup, if it happens, would pit one of the sport’s most powerful and experienced champions against one of its most skilled and technically gifted boxers. To add to the intrigue, Floyd Mayweather Jr., one of boxing’s greatest defensive geniuses, has weighed in on the potential clash, offering opinions based on his own experience and intimate knowledge of the sport.
Mayweather, who outpointed Canelo in 2013, sees this fight as a battle of styles: Canelo’s strength and aggression against Crawford’s speed and tactical brilliance. A four-division world champion, Canelo has dominated multiple weight classes, showcasing his devastating power and enhanced defensive abilities. However, as Mayweather noted, he has historically struggled against fighters with superior movement and defensive awareness, as seen in his loss to Dmitry Bivol.
On the other hand, Crawford has been widely regarded as one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the world. His ability to switch stances, adapt mid-fight, and outsmart his opponents has made him a dominant force. His destruction of Errol Spence Jr. proved he’s superior to his competition at welterweight. However, the biggest question remains: Can Crawford take his skills to a higher weight class and withstand Canelo’s power?
Size will undoubtedly play a crucial role in this fight. Canelo has fought at weights as high as 175 pounds, absorbing punches from naturally larger fighters, while Crawford has never fought above 147 pounds. Mayweather acknowledged that while Crawford’s skill set could be a problem for Canelo, the weight disparity could be the deciding factor. If the fight takes place at super middleweight (168 pounds), Canelo would have a significant advantage in strength and durability. However, if they agree to a catchweight closer to 160 pounds, Crawford could maintain his speed advantage without sacrificing too much power.
Mayweather also cautioned against comparing Crawford’s dominance over Spence to what he could do against Canelo. While Spence is a great fighter, he doesn’t possess Canelo’s knockout power or physical presence. Furthermore, Canelo has already faced some of the best technical boxers in the world, including Mayweather himself, and has learned from them. Unlike Spence, Canelo has experience adapting to elite opponents across multiple divisions.
If the fight takes place, there are two possible scenarios. If Canelo can pressure Crawford effectively, cut off the ring, and land his signature body shots, he could wear him down and secure a late stoppage or a dominant decision victory. However, if Crawford can maintain his distance, utilize his superior footwork, and capitalize on counterpunching opportunities, he could outbox Canelo and win on points. His best chance would be to replicate the model Mayweather used in 2013: frustrating Canelo with movement and precise counters.
Beyond an exciting fight, this bout would have significant historical implications. A victory for Canelo would cement his legacy as one of the best boxers of his era, proving he can defeat elite fighters regardless of their style. If Crawford pulls off the upset, he would join the ranks of legends who have defied weight disadvantages to achieve greatness. Moving up several weight classes to beat Canelo would make his case as one of the greatest pound-for-pound boxers in history even stronger.
Mayweather’s final assessment remains cautious. While he leans toward Crawford in terms of skill, he acknowledges that Canelo’s size and power could make the difference. One thing is certain: if this fight happens, it will be one of the biggest boxing events in recent history, a showdown between two of the sport’s best and a battle that could define their legacies for years to come.
