The boxing world is buzzing as Oscar De La Hoya, the legendary boxer and current promoter, has called out Canelo Alvarez for reportedly refusing an offer to fight pound-for-pound sensation Terence Crawford. The potential matchup, which had fans and analysts alike dreaming of an epic showdown, seems to have hit a roadblock, and De La Hoya isn’t holding back his criticism of the undisputed super middleweight champion.
De La Hoya’s Bold Statements
In a recent interview, De La Hoya expressed his frustration over Canelo’s decision, stating:
“This is the fight the fans want to see. Crawford is willing, ready, and able. It’s disappointing to see Canelo pass on this opportunity to give the sport something historic.”
De La Hoya emphasized that a bout between Canelo and Crawford would not only showcase two of the best fighters in the sport but also elevate boxing to new heights, drawing global attention and record-breaking viewership.
The Proposed Superfight
The offer reportedly included a lucrative deal for both fighters, with Crawford willing to move up in weight to challenge Canelo at super middleweight. Crawford, who recently became the first man to unify the welterweight division in the four-belt era, has been vocal about wanting to cement his legacy by taking on the biggest names in the sport.
For Canelo, the fight would have been another chance to solidify his standing as one of the greatest fighters of his generation. However, sources close to the Mexican superstar have suggested that scheduling conflicts, weight considerations, and other priorities played a role in his decision to decline.
Fans React
Boxing fans have taken to social media to weigh in on the situation. Some are siding with De La Hoya, accusing Canelo of avoiding a tough challenge, while others defend Canelo’s decision, citing his already packed schedule and recent string of fights against top-tier opponents.
- “Canelo needs to stop ducking Crawford. This fight would have been legendary,” one fan tweeted.
- “Canelo has nothing to prove. He’s fought everyone in his weight class and beyond. Let Crawford prove himself at 168 first,” another argued.
Canelo’s Response
While Canelo has not directly addressed De La Hoya’s comments, he has previously dismissed speculation about fighting Crawford, stating that his focus remains on fighters in his weight class. Canelo’s team has also hinted at a possible rematch with Dmitry Bivol or other super middleweight contenders as more immediate priorities.
What’s Next?
With the fight seemingly off the table for now, both fighters are expected to explore other options. Crawford has been linked to potential bouts with Jermell Charlo or a rematch with Errol Spence Jr., while Canelo continues to dominate the super middleweight division.
However, boxing fans know that in this sport, nothing is ever truly off the table. If the demand for Canelo vs. Crawford continues to grow, the two champions might eventually find themselves facing off in the ring.
For now, the boxing world will have to wait and see if this dream matchup becomes a reality or remains one of the great “what-ifs” in the sport’s history.