Terence Crawford added another world title to his collection, winning the WBA belt at 154lbs against Israil Madrimov. The Omaha native, undefeated in 40 fights over 16 years, continues to impress at 36 years old.
Crawford's career boasts impressive achievements. He's captured all four belts in two divisions, became undisputed at welterweight, and now holds championships in three weight classes. His recent victory over Madrimov by unanimous decision marked his successful move up to super welterweight.
Despite Crawford's continued success, four-weight world champion Mikey Garcia believes the champion might be showing signs of decline. In an interview with ES News, Garcia shared his thoughts on Crawford's performance at the higher weight:
"Crawford might not be at his prime. Skill-wise, he still has it but you saw the difference in the fight [with Madrimov], the size, the weight might've started to hurt him. He's not as effective as he was in the welterweight division or lower. His power might not carry as much."
Garcia went on to suggest that rising star Vergil Ortiz Jr. could potentially beat Crawford:
"And then you've got Virgil, who's huge, he's a big dude. It would be for us as far as styles, but you've got the power and size in our advantage. I think you've got that going for Virgil. Again, if Crawford is not in his prime anymore, all it takes it one fight, one training camp, and all of the sudden it's the end of his career and Vergil can really take advantage."
Ortiz, trained by Garcia's brother Robert, has been building momentum after a period of illness and has expressed interest in facing Crawford. The young fighter recently won a majority decision against Serhii Bohachuk, though many felt the verdict was fortunate. A rematch with Bohachuk could be on the cards for Ortiz.
As for Crawford, a fight with Ortiz seems unlikely. Turki Alalshikh of Riyadh Season believes Crawford would turn down the match-up. Many in the boxing world think Crawford is holding out for a big-money fight with Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez. If that doesn't materialize, retirement could be on the horizon for the decorated champion.
Crawford's next move remains uncertain. Will he continue to test himself at 154lbs? Will the Canelo fight come to fruition? Or will the Omaha native decide to hang up the gloves while still at the top of his game? The boxing world waits with bated breath for Crawford's decision.
