The potential superfight between Canelo Alvarez and Terence Crawford is one of the most intriguing and hotly debated topics in boxing today. Both fighters are undisputed champions in their respective divisions, with Canelo dominating the super middleweight landscape at 168 pounds and Crawford having conquered multiple weight classes, including welterweight and junior middleweight. While the idea of āāthis clash excites fans, pundits and fellow fighters have raised questions about the feasibility and fairness of the matchup due to the significant weight disparity and stylistic challenges.
Canelo Alvarez: The King of 168 pounds
Canelo Alvarez’s dominance at super middleweight is undisputed. Having held all four major belts in the division, his resume includes victories over formidable opponents in multiple weight classes including middleweight, super middleweight and light heavyweight. Known for his exceptional power, granite chin and ability to adapt to different styles, Canelo has faced and defeated a wide range of elite fighters. His recent victory over Edgar Berlanga was another testament to his enduring dominance.
David Benavidez, a top contender at 168 pounds, has long sought a fight with Canelo. He believes Canelo’s size, power and experience make him a nightmare opponent for Crawford. Benavidez stressed that weight classes exist for a reason, and Canelo’s natural size advantage would be a significant factor. “Canelo at 168 is not a good fit for Crawford,” Benavidez said, citing the Mexican superstar’s demonstrated ability to take punches from harder punchers and dominate larger opponents.
Terence Crawford: A Legacy in the Making
Terence Crawford is no stranger to making history. After becoming the first male boxer to unify all four belts in two different weight classes, his reputation as a technical genius is well-earned. Crawford’s dismantling of Errol Spence Jr. in 2023 further cemented his status as one of the best fighters of his era. However, moving up to 168 pounds to challenge Canelo would mark uncharted territory for the Omaha native. His debut at junior middleweight (154 pounds) was impressive, but the jump up to super middleweight is another challenge all together.
While Crawford’s skills are second to none, critics like Benavidez argue that his power might not translate to the heavier division. At 147 pounds, Crawford was known for his ability to finish fights, but his performance at 154 raised questions about whether he could hurt a fighter like Canelo, who has faced and taken blows from some of the hardest punchers in the sport.
Weight and experience: decisive factors?
The main concern surrounding this potential fight is the significant size and power difference. Canelo, who has fought at the light heavyweight class, is accustomed to the physicality and pace of larger opponents. Crawford, on the other hand, would be venturing into a division where he would face not only a weight disadvantage, but also the challenge of adjusting to the speed and power dynamics of super middleweight fighters.
Former heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder weighed in on the matter, highlighting the risks smaller fighters face when they move up in weight. He compared the situation to “a baby touching heavier opponents,” emphasizing that the impact of punches becomes exponentially more dangerous at higher weights.
James Toney’s faith in Crawford
Despite the doubts, Crawford has supporters who believe in his ability to overcome the odds. James Toney, a former three-weight world champion, expressed confidence in Crawford’s abilities and offered to train him for the fight. Toney dismissed Canelo’s dominance, stating that he could teach Crawford how to exploit weaknesses in the Mexican star’s game. However, even with Toney’s backing, the physical challenges Crawford would face against Canelo remain significant.
A fight for the legacy
Both fighters seem motivated by the potential legacy that such a fight would create. For Crawford, defeating Canelo at 168 pounds would be a historic achievement, cementing his place among the best of all time. For Canelo, a win would further enhance his already legendary career and add another iconic name to his list of conquered opponents.
In the end, the fight remains speculative, with both fighters expressing interest but no confirmation in sight. If it happens, it would be one of the most anticipated matchups in boxing history, showcasing the clash between size, power and skill. As fans eagerly await further developments, one thing is clear: this fight, if it materializes, will be a defining moment for both Canelo Alvarez and Terence Crawford.
