Crawford's journey in boxing started at 135lbs. He's now moved up to 154lbs and won a world title, showing his ability to dominate across weight classes. His recent victory over Madrimov went the distance, proving he can handle tough opponents in higher weight divisions.
The Nebraskan boxer has his sights set on facing Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez at 168lbs. However, Alvarez has turned down talks for now. The Mexican star has a fight lined up with Edgar Berlanga on September 14. Alvarez, the current unified super-middleweight champion, has said he'll sign to fight Crawford if the price is right.
Turki Alalshikh, the Chairman of Saudi Arabia's General Entertainment Authority, is looking at options for Crawford's next fight. He thinks Crawford will likely turn down offers that don't involve Canelo. There's been talk about a possible match with Vergil Ortiz, an undefeated super-welterweight, but Alalshikh expects Crawford to reject this offer.
Rumors started circulating about a potential fight between Crawford and Gennady Golovkin. Golovkin, 42, last fought in September 2022, losing his trilogy battle with Canelo. The two-time unified middleweight champion is known as one of the toughest men in the sport. While not officially retired, Golovkin has said he's open to worthwhile opportunities.
"Has his eye on any worthwhile opportunities,"Golovkin stated, keeping the door open for a potential return to the ring.
However, Alalshikh quickly put an end to these rumors. On August 21, 2024, he tweeted a simple "not truth!" dismissing the speculation about a Crawford-Golovkin matchup.
Crawford's next move remains up in the air. We'll have to wait until after the Canelo-Berlanga fight in September to see what opportunities open up for him. For now, the boxing world watches and waits to see who will step into the ring with the newly crowned WBA 154lbs champion.