By Gary Cromie: Boxing followers, brace yourselves for a hypothetical showdown of epic proportions: Canelo Álvarez versus Terence “Bud” Crawford. Whereas this struggle isn’t confirmed, the mere chance of it in 2025 has the boxing world buzzing. This match-up isn’t just a daydream; it’s essentially the most compelling and intriguing struggle in boxing in the present day.
The Story of the Tape
First, let’s discuss measurement and talent. Canelo Álvarez, the Mexican powerhouse, sometimes fights round 168 kilos and have become the undisputed King at 168 earlier than being stripped by the IBF in July 2024. He’s recognized for his brutal energy, iron chin, intelligent counterpunching, and a will to win. On the opposite aspect, Bud Crawford, a welterweight maestro and two-time undisputed champion, has proven he can pack a punch at increased weights like 154, the place he took the extremely expert and unorthodox Madrimov’s belt in a chess match that had hardcore followers salivating. Bud has now gained championship belts in 4 completely different divisions, 135, 140, 147, and 154, and is daring to dream at 168.
Crawford’s clear residing and rigorous self-discipline imply his age (at the moment 37) is however a quantity. Not like others who balloon up between fights, Bud stays lean, imply, and all the time able to step into the ring. A struggle at round 160-163 kilos for Bud would see him stronger whereas retaining his pace benefit towards Canelo. Canelo’s current fights have seen him grow to be a plodder with a questionable engine who masses up on single punches – a reality uncovered by Bivol, who schooled him within the artwork of stick and transfer. Don’t overlook, Canelo couldn’t put away Munguia or Berlanga regardless of knocking them down and each these fighters have been thought of simple assignments for the Mexican, and lots of pundits have been proper to assert they have been cherry picks.
The Consultants Weigh In
In the case of opinions from the boxing intelligentsia, many imagine Crawford has the instruments to take down Canelo. Teddy Atlas, the fiery coach turned commentator, praises Crawford’s ring IQ and flexibility, saying, “Crawford can struggle in any fashion and regulate on the fly. That’s a nightmare for Canelo.”
Andre Ward, a grasp strategist in his personal proper, sees Crawford’s versatility as key. “Bud’s capability to modify stances and management distance offers him the sting,” says Ward.
Stephen “Breadman” Edwards lauds Bud’s capability to regulate the space and dictate the tempo. He feedback, “Crawford’s ring generalship is second to none. He is aware of the right way to management the tempo of the struggle.”
Tim Bradley provides, “Bud’s work ethic and his capability to remain in form all yr spherical goes to provide Canelo issues. He’s not going to get drained.”
And let’s not overlook Errol Spence Jr., who has gone on document saying, “If Bud fought Canelo, I’d choose Bud as a result of there’s nothing he can’t do when he places his thoughts to it—he’s particular.”
Canelo’s Excuses: A Comedy of Errors
Now, let’s dive into Canelo’s treasure trove of excuses for dodging Bud. First, he claims Crawford is “too small.” Actually, Canelo? The identical Bud who has moved up weight lessons with ease? It’s additionally a bit wealthy coming from somebody who has fought at cruiserweight, tipping the scales round 200 kilos, however is barely 5 foot 7 inches – the identical top as Bud. Claiming that Crawford is just too small to struggle at 168 is like saying a giraffe can’t attain excessive branches—utterly absurd.
Then there’s the basic “Crawford isn’t a sufficiently big draw.” Cue the canned laughter. Bud’s current fights have drawn large audiences, proving he’s a star in his personal proper, however all through his profession, he’s been prevented and marginalized – particularly by the PBC secure. Saying that Bud isn’t a giant draw is like claiming folks don’t watch the Tremendous Bowl for the commercials—utter nonsense.
Canelo’s previous with David Benavidez is much more laughable. From claiming Benavidez hasn’t “earned” a shot (as if knocking out opponent after opponent isn’t sufficient) to hiding behind the WBC’s safety racket, Canelo’s reluctance reeks of being the WBC’s money cow. Maurice Sulaiman and his crew have definitely pampered their golden goose, ensuring he’s protected and sound from any actual risk, and, in my opinion, have turned the person into an insupportable Diva.
The Legacy Query
Canelo usually talks about his legacy, however what does it actually entail? A sequence of rigorously curated fights that keep away from true competitors – Bivol apart? Historical past doesn’t keep in mind the geese and dodges; it remembers the soldiers. Crawford, alternatively, is all about legacy. He’s prepared to step into the lion’s den, tackle the largest challenges, and are available out victorious. Canelo seems to have one foot out the door, unwilling to problem himself towards one of the best anymore however content material to become profitable preventing lesser males.
Techniques and Successful on Factors
For Bud to win, it’s all about techniques. His pace and footwork can frustrate Canelo, preserving him off steadiness and unable to plant his toes for these highly effective photographs. Crawford’s jab, mixed together with his capability to modify stances, can create angles that Canelo hasn’t encountered earlier than. Bud’s finest wager is to stay and transfer, touchdown clear photographs and avoiding extended exchanges. Over 12 rounds, this method might see Crawford outboxing Canelo, successful a call on factors, and proving that talent and technique trump uncooked energy.
The Grand Finale
In conclusion, this struggle is the conflict boxing followers deserve. Crawford is the challenger able to shake issues up, whereas Canelo appears extra desirous about sustaining his comfy, rigorously managed standing. If Canelo continues to dodge Bud, he dangers his legacy being tainted not by losses however by missed alternatives. Enter Turki Al-Sheikh, the person who likes to make one of the best struggle one of the best. Whether or not you’re keen on him or hate him, Turki has the assets to entice Canelo into the ring. Regardless of being within the twilight of their careers, a struggle between Canelo and Crawford can be compelling and profitable. So, right here’s hoping Canelo stops hiding and steps as much as the problem. If not, nicely, I’ll be right here, chuckling at his newest spherical of excuses.
Till then, let’s maintain dreaming of this potential showdown and hope it turns into a actuality. On the earth of boxing, the battles we don’t see usually go away the largest questions.
