Terence Crawford wants to move up two weight divisions to face Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez. The undisputed welterweight champion aims to challenge the unified super middleweight world champion in a potential September showdown.
Crawford's recent achievements have set the stage for this ambitious move. He secured an undisputed welterweight win over Errol Spence Jr in 2023 and made a successful debut at super-welterweight. Now, he's eyeing a 14-pound jump to take on Canelo.
Alvarez brings an impressive record to the table. In 66 fights, he's never been knocked down or stopped. At super middleweight, he remains undefeated. This presents a formidable challenge for Crawford.
Hall of Fame fighter and promoter Oscar De La Hoya shared his thoughts on the potential matchup. In an interview with Brian Mazique, De La Hoya expressed skepticism about Crawford's chances:
"If Crawford can do it, Jesus Lord, I mean give this man the title of being the greatest ever … but I just don't see it. Canelo is a big puncher. Yeah, he walks on quicksand and that's one thing that Crawford can use against him, but the pressure of the heavier guy…"
De La Hoya added:
"Canelo will be 200 pounds in that ring. It's a tough fight but, look, I give all the credit to Crawford. If he pulls it off he'll be the messiah of fighters."
Before any potential Crawford fight, Canelo has business to attend to. On May 3, he'll face William Scull, a Cuban fighter based in Germany who recently picked up the IBF Super Middleweight World Title. Canelo was stripped of this title for refusing a mandatory defense against Scull. A win would make Alvarez a two-time undisputed champion in the division.
Crawford plans to wait until September for his next fight. If everything aligns, we might see Crawford and Canelo square off in Las Vegas this fall. The boxing world waits with bated breath to see if this ambitious matchup will come to fruition.
