Dana White confirmed the event will be the third-highest-grossing boxing gate ever, with 65,000 seats expected to be filled. The fight marks Netflix's second major boxing event following the Paul vs. Tyson match earlier in 2024.
Canelo, the undisputed super middleweight champion, enters with a record of 63-2-2 and 39 KOs. He's guaranteed over $100 million as part of a four-fight deal. Crawford, the former undisputed welterweight champion, boasts a perfect 41-0 record with 31 KOs. He's jumping up two weight classes for this opportunity.
BetMGM has Canelo as the slight favorite at -160, with Crawford at +145.
The undercard features several exciting matchups. Callum Walsh, the 24-year-old Irish prospect trained by Freddie Roach, is currently battling Fernando Vargas Jr. Walsh has controlled the fight through eight rounds with his body work and precision counters.
In other action, Christian Mbilli and Lester Martinez fought to a split draw for the interim WBC super middleweight title. The bout was filled with relentless exchanges, with Mbilli's pressure matching up against Martinez's clean power shots.
Mohammed Alakel, a 17-year-old Saudi prospect, impressed with a unanimous decision win over Travis Crawford. Ivan Dychko edged out Jermaine Franklin Jr in a sluggish heavyweight affair.
The event has drawn plenty of star power. Mike Tyson demonstrated a body shot on MrBeast, while Sofía Vergara visited Canelo backstage. Tracy Morgan and Marshawn Lynch were spotted ringside, with Lynch even trying his hand as a photographer.
Boxing experts are split on their predictions. Mike Tyson favors Canelo but acknowledges the potential for an upset. Amir Khan believes Crawford's fresher legs and slick boxing give him the edge. Tyson Fury leans towards Canelo due to the size difference.
"I want Crawford to win, but it doesn't look like that's going to happen," Tyson said on the Big Podcast with Shaquille O'Neal.
The atmosphere in the arena is electric. Canelo's appearance was met with massive cheers from the pro-Mexican crowd, while Crawford faced thunderous boos.
As the main event approaches, fans around the world are eagerly awaiting what promises to be a historic night for boxing.