Terence Crawford plans to jump up two weight divisions to face Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez later this year. Juan Manuel Marquez, a boxing legend, shared his thoughts on how the fight might turn out.
Marquez, who won championships in four weight classes during his career, doesn't think the matchup is a good idea. He told FightHype that the size difference between the fighters is too big.
"I don't like the fight. Terence Crawford's a good fighter, but in the sport of boxing we have divisions. Weight classes. He is a good fighter in super-lightweight, welterweight, super-welterweight, but more?"
Crawford, known as 'Bud', last fought at 154 pounds. He'll need to gain 14 pounds to meet Canelo at the super middleweight limit of 168 pounds. Marquez thinks this jump might be too much for Crawford.
"I remember when he fought with Madrimov. He looked slow, no power. Two more divisions? I think it's a tough fight for Terence Crawford. But he is a great fighter. He has great defence, good combination punches, but I think the weight class is no good for him."
Canelo has proven himself at higher weights. He's undefeated at 168 pounds and has even fought at light heavyweight. The Mexican star has won titles in four divisions, just like Crawford.
Crawford is working hard in the gym to get ready for the challenge. But before their potential clash, Canelo has another fight on his schedule.
In May, Canelo will face William Scull in Saudi Arabia. If he wins, he'll become a two-time undisputed champion at 168 pounds. Canelo dropped the IBF belt last year when he refused to fight Scull in a mandatory defense. Scull then won the vacant title.
The boxing world will watch closely to see how both fighters perform in their upcoming bouts. The potential Crawford-Canelo showdown later this year promises to be a major event, despite the concerns about the weight difference.
