Since crushing Errol Spence Jr. to become the first undisputed champion in two divisions, Terence Crawford has expressed his desire to build a legacy, part of which involves facing and defeating the undisputed 168-pound champion, Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez, in a potentially epic bout.
However, commercial commitments and Alvarez’s personal interests prevented this fight from materializing in September, as he easily defeated a weak Jermall Charlo instead. Canelo claimed it wasn’t the right time to fight Crawford, but according to ESPN’s Salvador Rodriguez, that moment may come in the fall, after facing Jermall Charlo in May.
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Meanwhile, this is still speculative, as there’s no official confirmation, and Crawford is one of several fighters vying for an opportunity. To increase pressure for the fight, ‘Bud’ posted a message on his X account confirming his willingness to fight and asserting that he’s the best option.
“Terence Crawford vs Canelo Alvarez is the biggest fight in boxing right now. Like it or not it’s just facts,” Crawford wrote.
ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith responded skeptically to Crawford‘s assertion, cautioning against false hopes.
Recently, this potential fight sparked a heated discussion on ESPN’s First Take, as an eagerly awaited, evenly matched bout between Canelo and WBC mandatory challenger David Benavidez, organized by PBC, has been anticipated since June.
However, the Mexican champion refuses to face Mexican challengers, even though both Benavidez and Jaime Munguia have proven themselves worthy of a spectacular fight, while Crawford would need to move up in weight.
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Regardless, Canelo chose neither, opting instead for a straightforward match against Charlo. Concerning Crawford, although he’s a spectacular fighter, experts believe the weight difference would be too much for him.
Oscar De La Hoya demands an opportunity for Munguia
Amidst these speculations, promoter Oscar De La Hoya seized the opportunity to challenge Canelo on a fight against his client, Munguia, who recently demolished Englishman John Ryder.
During a press conference last Saturday, De La Hoya stated that Canelo must defend his belts against the fighter from Tijuana, Mexico, or else he cannot claim to be the ‘King of the super middleweights’.
He insisted the fight should take place on the weekend of September 16, Mexico’s National Day. It has to be noted that De La Hoya didn’t end his relationship with Canelo amicably, potentially complicating negotiations.
UPDATE ;Keyshawn Davis Accuses Canelo Alvarez of Making “Excuses” to Not Fight Terence Crawford
By agreeing to face Charlo and Crawford, Canelo Alvarez would have avoided two more undefeated younger Mexicans: Munguia (43-0, 34 KO) and Benavidez (28-0, 24 KO).
