Why Crawford Could Be the Most Underdog Fighter in Boxing History—and What It Means for Canelo

The boxing world is buzzing with anticipation as Canelo Álvarez prepares to face Terence Crawford on September 13, 2025, at the Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, USA. This is more than just a super middleweight bout—it’s a high-stakes battle between two undisputed champions, where every punch, every strategy, and every moment in the ring could make history.

While Canelo Álvarez enters as the favorite, armed with a record-breaking career and global fame, Terence Crawford is often labeled the underdog, a designation that has generated widespread discussion and debate among boxing fans and analysts. But why is Crawford considered at a disadvantage, and what could this mean for the fight’s dynamics?

A Closer Look at the Fighters

Canelo Álvarez: The Established Champion

Canelo Álvarez is known for his precision, power, and tactical brilliance in the ring. With multiple championships across several weight classes, Canelo’s name has become synonymous with boxing excellence.

• Record & Achievements: Canelo has defended titles in the super middleweight division and has held world titles in four different weight classes.

• Fighting Style: Known for his counter-punching ability, defensive skills, and adaptability, Canelo is a nightmare for any opponent.

• Market Influence: With global fame, lucrative endorsements, and a massive fan following, Canelo commands a pay gap reflected in the fight purse, reportedly earning $15 million, 15 times Crawford’s estimated $1 million.

Terence Crawford: The Underdog

Terence Crawford is a highly skilled and versatile boxer who has earned respect for his switch-hitting ability, footwork, and tactical ring IQ. Yet, despite his credentials, he is widely considered the less favored fighter for several reasons:

• Public Perception: While Crawford has an undefeated record, he does not enjoy the same global recognition or marketability as Canelo.

• Financial Disparity: The massive difference in pay—Canelo’s $15 million versus Crawford’s $1 million—highlights the public and commercial expectations favoring Canelo.

• Venue and Exposure: Fighting at the iconic Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, with a capacity of 70,000, Canelo’s popularity gives him an edge in terms of crowd support and media attention.

The Venue: Allegiant Stadium, Las Vegas

The choice of Allegiant Stadium adds another layer of significance to this fight. Known for hosting large-scale events, this stadium has never hosted a major boxing event since 2020, making the return of boxing at this venue historic.

• Seating Capacity: 70,000 spectators, ensuring a charged atmosphere.

• Event Timing: Fight night is scheduled for September 13, 2025, with prelims starting at 7:00 AM Vietnam time and the main event at approximately 11:00 AM Vietnam time.

• Global Broadcast: Millions of fans worldwide will watch via pay-per-view or streaming platforms, amplifying the pressure and the spotlight on both fighters.

Why Crawford Could Be Considered the Underdog

Pay Discrepancy and Market Influence

One of the most tangible signs of Crawford’s underdog status is the staggering pay gap:

• Canelo Álvarez: $15 million

• Terence Crawford: $1 million

This difference underscores not just commercial appeal, but also public perception. Fans and promoters clearly favor Canelo, impacting media narratives and expectations.

Popularity and Fan Support

Canelo’s global fan base is immense, while Crawford, despite his skill, lacks the same mass-market recognition. In a stadium packed with 70,000 spectators, crowd energy can influence a fight psychologically, often giving the favorite an advantage.

Ring Experience and Pressure

Canelo has fought high-profile bouts in iconic venues worldwide, often in high-pressure situations with massive stakes. Crawford, while experienced, faces the challenge of performing under extreme scrutiny, with both global media and hardcore fans analyzing every move.

What This Means for Canelo

Canelo enters this fight not just as a competitor, but as a strategic favorite:

• Psychological Edge: Facing an opponent perceived as weaker allows Canelo to dictate the pace and pressure of the fight.

• Branding and Legacy: A win reinforces Canelo’s dominance in the super middleweight division and further cements his reputation in boxing history.

• Financial Leverage: The pay gap also mirrors the confidence in Canelo’s ability to attract viewers, sponsors, and PPV sales.

The Stakes: Titles, Legacy, and History

This fight isn’t just about money—it’s about boxing history. With 12 scheduled rounds, the undisputed super middleweight championship is on the line. Every round, every combination, and every strategic maneuver will influence:

• Canelo’s Legacy: Maintaining his undefeated aura and consolidating his status as a generational champion.

• Crawford’s Career: A victory, however improbable, could catapult him into legendary status. Even a strong performance in defeat would enhance his reputation as a resilient underdog.

Preliminaries and Supporting Matches

The event includes 9 preliminary fights across various weight classes, beginning at 7:00 AM Vietnam time, offering fans a full day of boxing action. Notable preliminary bouts include:

• Callum Walsh vs. Fernando Vargas Jr. (10 rounds, super welterweight)

• Christian Mbilli vs. Lester Martinez (12 rounds, WBC interim super middleweight)

• Ivan Dychko vs. Jermaine Franklin Jr. (10 rounds, heavyweight)

These prelims contribute to the overall hype and ensure that the entire Allegiant Stadium experience is unforgettable for attendees and global viewers.

Global Attention and Fan Engagement

Millions of fans worldwide are tracking every detail: ticket sales, fighter stats, and live commentary. Social media buzz amplifies Crawford’s underdog narrative, while also placing pressure on Canelo to deliver a definitive performance.

• Fan Interaction: Hashtags like #CaneloVsCrawford trend worldwide, with debates over odds, strategies, and predictions.

• Betting Markets: The pay gap and perceived skill differences influence betting lines, creating a frenzy among boxing enthusiasts and casual viewers alike.

Why the Fight Matters Beyond the Ring

This showdown is a microcosm of boxing culture: the tension between talent and marketability, skill and perception, history and future potential. Crawford’s underdog status adds dramatic tension, making the fight about more than just the titles—it’s about legacy, strategy, and global spectacle.

• For Canelo: An opportunity to reinforce dominance and extend his legacy.

• For Crawford: A chance to defy expectations and prove that being an underdog doesn’t define capability.

Conclusion: A Fight for the Ages

The Canelo Álvarez vs Terence Crawford matchup represents one of the most compelling narratives in boxing history. Crawford may be seen as the most underdog fighter in modern history, but that status makes this clash all the more thrilling. For Canelo, it’s a test of dominance; for Crawford, a chance at glory.

Fans across the globe will watch as these two champions step into the Allegiant Stadium ring, each punch potentially rewriting history. The fight promises technical brilliance, psychological drama, and unforgettable moments—and the question remains: can Crawford overcome the odds, or will Canelo cement his legacy even further?