Terence Crawford, an undefeated four-division boxing champion, might be nearing the end of his storied career. However, there’s one fight he still desires – a high-profile matchup with Canelo Alvarez. Both boxing insiders and Crawford himself suggest that without this super fight, he might retire from the sport. Here’s why only a Crawford vs. Canelo fight can bring Crawford back to the ring and why fans are hoping it happens.
Crawford’s legendary career and current status
With an undefeated 41-0 record and multiple titles across weight classes, Terence Crawford has achieved nearly everything in boxing. At 37, he recently claimed the WBA light middleweight title by defeating Israil Madrimov in August, further cementing his status as a pound-for-pound champion. Despite his ongoing dominance, Crawford seems uninterested in most current challengers in his division, suggesting he has little left to prove.
Experts like trainer Robert Garcia and boxing journalist Chris Mannix emphasize that Crawford’s focus is now on one fight: Canelo Alvarez. According to Garcia, Crawford doesn’t need to chase smaller bouts or satisfy fans’ demands; his legacy is already secure, and his financial success allows him to wait for the ideal matchup.
Why Canelo Alvarez is Crawford’s ultimate target
In terms of both competition and financial rewards, Canelo Alvarez is the pinnacle for Crawford. Known for his size, strength, and fierce punching power, Alvarez would present a unique challenge to Crawford’s technical skills and speed. But beyond the athletic test, the financial incentives are a primary factor.
Mannix noted that a Crawford-Alvarez fight would generate substantial revenue, making it the only match “that can get Terence Crawford out of bed”. In a post-fight interview, Crawford himself hinted that this fight isn’t just about legacy – it’s also about a significant payday. Although other fighters like Teofimo Lopez and Vergil Ortiz Jr. are eager to face Crawford, Mannix believes that only Canelo offers the right mix of prestige and financial appeal.
Potential outcome if the match takes place
Boxing fans and analysts are eager for this fight, but opinions are split on its potential outcome. Robert Garcia predicts that the first half of the fight would be highly competitive, with Crawford’s speed and precision countering Canelo’s power. However, he believes that as the fight progresses, Canelo’s size and resilience would give him an advantage.
This matchup would likely deliver a thrilling display of power, agility, and skill, with Crawford’s technical mastery squaring off against Canelo’s raw strength. For Crawford, it’s the kind of legacy-defining fight that could elevate his status further or serve as a fitting conclusion to his career.
Crawford’s dilemma: Wait or retire?
In the end, the decision rests with Crawford. As a seasoned fighter who has reached the pinnacle of the sport, he has the luxury of choosing his next steps. If Canelo isn’t interested, Crawford may decide to hang up his gloves. His trainer, Robert Garcia, and his fans support either choice, recognizing that he no longer has anything left to prove.
While boxing legends often retire only to return for unfinished business, a Crawford-Alvarez showdown could be the one opportunity that truly tempts Crawford to re-enter the ring. For now, fans can only hope that this dream match comes to fruition, bringing two boxing icons together for what could be an unforgettable event.
