Crawford Prepares for Canelo Showdown in Vegas

LAS VEGAS, Feb. 28, 2025 – Terence Crawford shifted gears in training as he prepares to step up two divisions for a highly anticipated bout against Canelo Alvarez on September 13. The current WBA, WBC, and WBO super middleweight champion, Alvarez, will defend his titles against Crawford, who boasts an undefeated record of 41-0 with 31 knockouts.

In a training video released today, Crawford, still looking competitive at junior middleweight, showcased his updated physique and movement to adapt to the larger competition he will face in the 168-pound division. Analysts suggest that his tactical approach will involve maintaining distance from the stronger Alvarez to avoid a full-frontal assault.

“Crawford moves like he’s playing chess rather than engaging in a brawl,” said boxing commentator Linda Smith. “Many fans who have only seen him fight Errol Spence might misunderstand his style,” she added. “Against Spence, he had the advantage and went for the win, but typically he’s much more defensive, often leading to less exciting matches.”

Despite his skills, Crawford’s decision to jump directly into a championship fight without first contesting with top contenders in the super middleweight division raises eyebrows. Not addressing challengers such as Osleys Iglesias, Diego Pacheco, or Christian Mbilli before facing Alvarez could undermine his legacy claims.

“If he truly aims for legacy, why not acclimate to the division first?” questioned boxing analyst Brian Turner. “Taking a tune-up fight would not only maintain his sharpness but showcase his intentions beyond a payday.”

Crawford’s past struggles at the 154-pound level, where he faced Israil Madrimov, also come into question. Viewers noted that Crawford displayed minimal power and sustained significant damage during that contest, suggesting he may not fare well against the likes of Alvarez.

His intentions, however, seem clouded by financial incentives. If successful against Alvarez, Crawford can position himself for a lucrative encounter with light heavyweight Dmitry Bivol by moving up yet again without proving himself among contenders, a move perceived by many as prioritizing revenue over sport.

In events just prior, Crawford was seen congratulating Bivol after his victory over Artur Beterbiev, further igniting speculation about future matchups, particularly should both fighters win their upcoming fights.

“I can see it from a mile away,” said Turner on the Bivol encounter. “This feels orchestrated to stoke excitement among fans for a potential Crawford-Bivol clash.”

Despite mixed sentiments about Crawford’s style, which many consider less thrilling compared to sluggers like Gervonta Davis, the anticipation for the fight against Alvarez is undeniable.

“Crawford needs to take the fight to Canelo; otherwise, it may resemble Jermell Charlo’s timid challenge,” criticizes boxing promoter Turki Alalshikh. “Fans deserve more than a defensive showcase.”

Moving forward, it seems that Crawford will need to prove himself against Canelo to silence critics and truly etch his name into boxing history before he can contemplate future matchups, including a potential clash with Bivol.