Terence Crawford wants to fight Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez. The four-division champion from Omaha, Nebraska, is pushing for a bout with the Mexican superstar, even though it means jumping up two weight classes.
Crawford, 36, just won the WBA World Title at 154 lbs by beating Israil Madrimov. It was his first fight in the super-welterweight division, and it ended his streak of ten straight stoppages. Now, he's looking to move up again to face Canelo at 168 lbs.
Canelo has never lost at super middleweight. He recently defended his unified titles against Edgar Berlanga in a routine win. Some fans think Canelo needs tougher challenges, but a fight with the smaller Crawford might not be what they have in mind.
Mike Tyson, the former heavyweight champ, doesn't like the idea of this fight. On the "It is what it is" podcast, he said:
"I don't like that fight. It's just too much weight."
Tyson pointed out that Crawford had a tough time with Madrimov because of the size difference. He thinks Crawford should fight someone who comes straight at him instead.
Canelo has said he'd get no credit for beating a smaller man. But he might consider it if the offer is right. If the Crawford fight doesn't happen, fans want to see Canelo take on David Benavidez. Canelo himself is interested in a rematch with Dmitry Bivol.
Some worry that Crawford's power won't translate to the bigger weight class. It's a big jump, and Canelo is a tough opponent. But Crawford is skilled, and he's determined to make this fight happen. We'll have to wait and see if these two champions can work out a deal.
