Terence Crawford is so desperate for a win over Canelo Alvarez that he will even move up 3 weight divisions and ask no favors

The world of boxing is abuzz with speculation as Terence “Bud” Crawford, an undisputed champion in multiple weight classes, sets his sights on one of the biggest challenges of his career—moving up in weight to take on the Mexican powerhouse, Canelo Alvarez.

Crawford has never shied away from daring feats, but this challenge could define his legacy. If he manages to defeat Canelo, he believes it will cement his place among the top five greatest boxers of all time. The question remains: Can Crawford defy the odds and overcome the size and power disparity against one of boxing’s most dominant figures?

In this deep dive, we’ll explore Crawford’s career, Canelo’s dominance, the implications of such a fight, and what it means for boxing history.

Terence Crawford: A Champion Across Divisions

From Lightweight to Welterweight Supremacy

Terence Crawford (41-0, 31 KOs) has built a flawless career, conquering multiple divisions with his unique ability to switch between orthodox and southpaw stances. His adaptability, sharp counterpunching, and knockout power have made him one of the most feared fighters in the sport.

• Lightweight (135 lbs): Crawford won his first world title in 2014, defeating Ricky Burns for the WBO lightweight championship.
• Light Welterweight (140 lbs): He became the undisputed champion by defeating Julius Indongo in 2017, holding the WBA, WBC, IBF, and WBO titles.
• Welterweight (147 lbs): Crawford moved up to defeat Jeff Horn and claimed the WBO welterweight title, later unifying the division after a masterful win over Errol Spence Jr. in 2023.

With dominance in three weight classes, Crawford has proven that he can carry his power and skill up the divisions. But a jump to 168 lbs to face Canelo is an entirely different beast.

Canelo Alvarez: The Reigning King of Super Middleweight

A Champion Across Four Weight Classes

Canelo Alvarez (62-2-2, 39 KOs) is one of the biggest names in boxing, boasting an illustrious career spanning multiple weight classes:

• Light Middleweight (154 lbs): Won his first major title in 2011 by defeating Matthew Hatton for the WBC belt.
• Middleweight (160 lbs): Became a unified champion by defeating Gennady Golovkin in their 2018 rematch.
• Super Middleweight (168 lbs): Became the undisputed champion by defeating Callum Smith, Billy Joe Saunders, and Caleb Plant.
• Light Heavyweight (175 lbs): Won the WBO title by knocking out Sergey Kovalev in 2019.

At 168 lbs, Canelo is at his physical peak. His ability to dominate larger opponents, combined with his elite counterpunching and relentless pressure, makes him an extremely dangerous opponent for anyone moving up in weight.

Crawford’s Historic Challenge: Why It’s a Big Deal

Jumping Three Weight Classes

Crawford is willing to move from 147 lbs to 168 lbs—a 21-pound jump, something rarely attempted in boxing history. The size and strength difference is a significant factor, as Canelo has spent most of his career comfortably fighting above 160 lbs.

Unlike past weight-jumping champions like Roy Jones Jr., who moved up to heavyweight but had a natural frame for it, Crawford will be stepping into entirely new territory against a proven elite opponent.

No Weight Restrictions

Unlike other cross-division fights where fighters agree on catchweights or rehydration clauses, Crawford insists on a no-excuses approach:

“I’m not asking for a catchweight. I’m not asking for any favors. I want to beat Canelo at his best.”

This mindset adds to the challenge—Crawford will be facing a naturally bigger fighter without any weight-related advantages.

Crawford’s Place in History

Crawford believes that a win over Canelo will place him among the top five greatest boxers of all time. Given that he has already unified divisions and remains undefeated, this claim isn’t far-fetched.

“If I beat Canelo, I deserve a spot in the top five fighters of all time. There’s no debate about that.”

A victory would not only be his biggest career achievement but also one of the greatest accomplishments in boxing history.

Canelo’s Perspective: Is This a Fight He Wants?

Initially, Canelo dismissed the idea of facing Crawford, citing the significant weight difference. However, as speculation grew, he changed his tone:

“Why not? It’s possible—if it makes sense, I’m down to do it.”

Canelo is no stranger to big-money fights, and a matchup against Crawford would be a blockbuster event. The key question is whether he sees Crawford as a legitimate threat or simply another payday.

Potential Fight Agreement

Rumors suggest that an agreement is in place for a fight during Riyadh Season in Las Vegas, scheduled for September 13, 2025. If true, this would be one of the biggest fights in recent history.

Challenges Crawford Will Face

Size and Strength Disparity

Canelo has spent years fighting naturally bigger men. His durability, power, and ability to impose his physicality will be a massive challenge for Crawford, who has never faced an opponent of Canelo’s size and strength.

Canelo’s Power

At 168 lbs, Canelo has knockout power. Fighters like Caleb Plant and Billy Joe Saunders—both naturally bigger than Crawford—were broken down by his relentless pressure and body shots. Crawford will need to avoid taking too many clean shots to survive.

Canelo’s Experience Against Elite Fighters

Canelo has fought elite-level opponents, including:

• Gennady Golovkin
• Floyd Mayweather Jr.
• Miguel Cotto
• Sergey Kovalev
• Dmitry Bivol

Crawford, while dominant, has yet to face someone with the experience and skill level of Canelo.

Can Crawford Win? How He Could Pull It Off

Speed and Ring IQ

Crawford is one of the smartest fighters in boxing. His ability to adapt mid-fight, combined with his defensive awareness and counterpunching, could help neutralize Canelo’s power.

Southpaw Advantage

Canelo has struggled against skilled southpaws in the past, notably Erislandy Lara. If Crawford fights from a southpaw stance, he could frustrate Canelo with movement and counters.

High Work Rate

Canelo tends to slow down in later rounds. If Crawford can maintain a high volume of punches and stay elusive, he could win on points.

What’s at stake for boxing?

If this fight happens, it will be a historic event. A win for Crawford would be one of the greatest upsets in boxing history, while a win for Canelo would further cement his legacy as one of the sport’s all-time greats.

Additionally, this fight could:

• Boost Crawford’s mainstream appeal.
• Increase the appeal of cross-division mega-fights.
• Solidify Canelo as a dominant force in boxing history.

Conclusion: Will It Happen?

Both fighters have expressed interest, and if the money and conditions are right, this fight could become reality.

For Crawford, it’s a chance to etch his name among the greatest of all time. For Canelo, it’s another opportunity to prove his dominance against one of the most skilled boxers in the world.

No matter the outcome, a Crawford vs. Canelo showdown would be a fight for the ages—one that fans would talk about for generations.