While many fans are calling for Saul “Canelo” Alvarez to move up in weight to challenge “The Mexican Monster” David Benavidez, the most likely next opponent for Alvarez is Terence Crawford.
Crawford is set to fight Israil Madrimov at 154 pounds on August 3rd in Los Angeles. The fight has serious implications for the boxing world as it marks the first time Saudi Arabi-backed promoter Turki Alalshikh is holding an event in America. If Crawford gets past Madrimov, Alalshikh has already said he wants to set up Crawford vs. Canelo by the end of 2024.
And as we’ve learned in heavyweight boxing, these are not just empty words.
ESPN discussed the potential superstar showdown with Crawford.
“You got two of the top fighters of this decade, not just in the past year or so,” the WBA, WBC, and WBO welterweight champion said. “You got two fighters that’s been at the top for 10 years. You got the No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter in the world and you got the No. 1 money man.”
The Kingdom is offering up boxing purses big enough to knock down any obstacles in the way. Crawford seems unconcerned to move up and fight Canelo, who weighed in at 168 pounds for the Munguia bout. And Canelo has said he’s chasing purses at this point in his career, not the respect of fans who expect him to meet Benavidez at 175 pounds.
May 5, 2024
(watch the highlights here). He was a bit more measured with ESPN.
“I thought it was a good fight,” Crawford said. “I thought Munguia fought hard, I just think his inexperience caught up to him and made him fall in and square up and not stepping in with his punches allowed Canelo to sit back, counter and pick his shots. Canelo was real patient.”
What do you think of a potential Crawford vs. Canelo superfight, Maniacs? Are you into it, or is Canelo picking the smaller, easier fight for more money? Let us know in the comments below!
