As the boxing world gears up for one of the most anticipated showdowns in recent history—Terence “Bud” Crawford vs. Canelo Álvarez—fellow champion Shakur Stevenson has added fuel to the fire with a bold and unapologetic prediction. The undefeated WBC lightweight champion didn’t hold back when asked who he sees walking out victorious in this mega fight, scheduled for September 21 in Las Vegas.

“I got Bud Crawford all day,” Stevenson said in a recent interview. “Canelo’s great, no doubt. But Bud is different. He’s going to shock the world.”

A Champion’s Endorsement

Shakur Stevenson, himself regarded as one of the most technically gifted fighters in the sport, is no stranger to greatness. Undefeated and dominant in multiple weight classes, Stevenson has trained alongside Crawford in the past and shares a close personal and professional bond with the Omaha-born champion.

“He’s the most complete fighter I’ve ever seen,” Stevenson said. “Switches stances, controls distance, adapts to anything. Canelo has never faced anyone like Bud.”

Stevenson’s opinion carries weight. As a rising star and student of the game, his insight is respected by fans and experts alike. His prediction isn’t just loyalty—it’s strategy-based.

“I see Crawford using his timing, his IQ, and his footwork to frustrate Canelo. It’s going to be a clinic.”

Breaking Down the Matchup

On paper, the fight presents one of the most intriguing stylistic clashes in modern boxing. Canelo, a four-division champion and reigning super middleweight king, brings raw power, elite defense, and a granite chin. His experience against bigger fighters like Gennady Golovkin, Sergey Kovalev, and Dmitry Bivol makes him a daunting opponent.

Crawford, meanwhile, is the former undisputed lightweight and welterweight champion and widely considered one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the world. His dismantling of Errol Spence Jr. in 2023 cemented his legacy and silenced any remaining doubters.

Despite the size difference, Stevenson believes Crawford’s skill set will neutralize Canelo’s physical advantages.

“People always talk about size, but skills win fights,” he said. “Bud is stronger than people think, and smarter than anyone Canelo has ever fought.”

Not Everyone Agrees

While Stevenson’s confidence in Crawford is clear, not everyone shares the same view. Many boxing analysts argue that the size and power of Canelo could be too much for Crawford to handle. Some even question whether Crawford, who has never fought above 154 pounds, can carry his speed and stamina into the super middleweight division.

“Canelo is a natural 168-pounder with elite-level body punching,” analyst Timothy Bradley said. “He’s used to the weight. Crawford’s never faced that kind of pressure.”

Still, Stevenson isn’t backing down from his stance.

“Everyone doubted Bud against Spence too,” he said. “He shut everybody up. And he’ll do it again.”

Respect Between Warriors

Despite the fiery predictions, Stevenson was quick to clarify that he respects both fighters.

“Canelo is a legend. He’s done it all. I’m not hating on him,” he said. “But Bud is on another level right now. He’s in his prime. He’s hungry.”

He also acknowledged that fans are in for a rare treat.

“This is what boxing needs—two pound-for-pound greats risking it all. These are the kinds of fights that make history.”

Training Camp Intel?

While not officially part of Crawford’s training camp, Stevenson has reportedly visited Omaha multiple times over the past year, and sources say he’s been in the gym observing Crawford’s preparation.

“Let’s just say I know what’s coming,” Stevenson said with a grin.

When asked if he thinks the fight will go the distance, Stevenson replied confidently:

“If Canelo makes it 12 rounds, I’ll be impressed. But don’t be surprised if Bud stops him late. I’ve seen what he’s working on. It’s surgical.”

Final Thoughts

With just over three months to go until fight night, the boxing community is buzzing with opinions, predictions, and heated debates. And now, with Shakur Stevenson backing Crawford with such conviction, fans are even more eager to see how this drama unfolds.

Whether or not Stevenson’s prediction comes true, one thing is certain—on September 21, the world will be watching.

Will Crawford defy the odds once more? Or will Canelo remind everyone why he’s one of the greatest of his generation?

Only time—and the ring—will tell.