by Gary Cromie: Boxing fans, get ready for a hypothetical showdown of epic proportions: Canelo Alvarez vs. Terence “Bud” Crawford. While this fight has not been confirmed, the mere possibility of it taking place in 2025 is causing a stir in the boxing world. This match isn’t just a daydream; It is the most compelling and interesting fight in boxing today.
The story of the tape
First, let’s talk about size and skill. Canelo Alvarez, the Mexican powerhouse, typically fights around 168 pounds and became the undisputed king at 168 before being stripped by the IBF in July 2024. He is known for his brutal power, iron chin, smart counterpunching, and desire to win. On the other hand, welterweight maestro and two-time undisputed champion Bud Crawford showed that he can land punches at higher weights like 154, as he captured the highly skilled and unorthodox Madrimov belt in a chess match that had hardcore fans salivating. . Bud has now won championship belts in four different divisions, 135, 140, 147, and 154, and he dares to dream at 168.
Crawford’s clean living and strict discipline mean that his age (currently 37) is nothing but a number. Unlike others who rush between fights, Bud stays lean and mean and always ready to get into the ring. Fighting at around 160-163 pounds for Bud will make him stronger while retaining the speed advantage against Canelo. Canelo’s recent fights have seen him turn into a lumbering driver with questionable motor who loads up on single punches – a fact exposed by Bivol, who taught him the art of the stick and movement. Don’t forget, Canelo couldn’t get rid of Munguia or Berlanga despite taking them down, and these two fighters were considered pushovers for the Mexican, and many pundits were right to claim they were picks.
Experts weigh in
When it comes to boxing pundits’ opinions, many believe Crawford has the tools to beat Canelo. Fiery trainer-turned-commentator Teddy Atlas praises Crawford’s rounded IQ and adaptability, saying: “Crawford can fight any style and adapt quickly. This is a nightmare for Canelo.”
Andre Ward, a master strategist in his own right, sees Crawford’s versatility as key. “Bud’s ability to switch positions and control distance gives him the advantage,” Ward says.
Stephen “Breadman” Edwards praises Budd’s ability to control distance and dictate speed. He comments, “Crawford’s overall command is unparalleled. He knows how to control the tempo of the fight.”
Tim Bradley adds: “Bud’s work ethic and ability to stay fit all year long is going to cause problems for Canelo. He’s not going to get tired.”
And let’s not forget Errol Spence Jr., who went on record saying, “If Bud fights Canelo, I’ll pick Bud because there’s nothing he can’t do when he puts his mind to it — he’s special.”
Canelo’s excuses: a comedy of errors
Now, let’s dive into Canelo’s treasure trove of excuses to avoid Bud. First, he claims Crawford is “too young.” Really, Canelo? The same bud who moved up weight classes with ease? He’s also a bit rich coming from someone who fought at cruiserweight, tipping the scales at around 200 pounds, but he’s only 5 feet 7 inches tall – the same height as Bud. Claiming that Crawford is too young to fight at 168 is like saying a giraffe can’t reach high branches – which is completely ridiculous.
Then there’s the classic “Crawford’s not a big enough attraction.” Cue the canned laughter. Bud’s recent fights have attracted large crowds, proving that he is a star in his own right, but throughout his career, he has been shunned and marginalized – especially by the PBC group. Saying Bud isn’t a big draw is like claiming people don’t watch the Super Bowl for the commercials — which is utter nonsense.
Canelo’s past with David Benavidez is even more laughable. From claiming that Benavidez didn’t “earn” an opportunity (as if knocking out one opponent after another wasn’t enough) to hiding behind the WBC’s protection racket, Canelo’s reluctance to be the WBC’s cash cow reeks of it. Maurice Slimane and his crew have certainly pampered their golden goose, making sure he is safe and sound from any real threat, and in my view, they have turned the man into an insufferable diva.
Heritage question
Canelo often talks about his legacy, but what does that really entail? A carefully orchestrated series of battles that avoid real competition – Bivol aside? History doesn’t remember Dodgers and Ducks. He remembers the warriors. Crawford, on the other hand, is all about legacy. He is ready to enter the lion’s den, face the greatest challenges, and emerge victorious. Canelo seems to be one foot out the door, unwilling to challenge himself against the best anymore but content to make money by fighting lesser men.
Tactics and winning points
For Bud to win, it’s all about tactics. His speed and footwork can frustrate Canelo, keeping him off balance and unable to plant his feet for those powerful shots. Crawford’s jab, combined with his ability to switch positions, can create angles that Canelo has never faced before. Bud’s best bet is to stay and move, landing clean shots and avoiding long exchanges. Over 12 rounds, this approach could lead to Crawford outpointing Canelo, winning a decision on points, and proving that skill and strategy trump raw power.
The grand finale
In conclusion, this is a fight that boxing fans deserve. Crawford is the contender ready to shake things up, while Canelo seems more interested in maintaining his comfortable and carefully managed status. If Canelo continues to elude Budd, he risks having his legacy tarnished not by losses but by missed opportunities. Enter Turki Al-Sheikh, a man who likes to make the best fight the best. Love him or hate him, Turk has the resources to lure Canelo to the ring. Despite being in the twilight of their careers, a fight between Canelo and Crawford would be a compelling and profitable one. So, hopefully Canelo stops hiding and steps up to the challenge. If not, well, I’ll be here, laughing at his latest round of excuses.
Until then, let’s keep dreaming about this potential showdown and hope it becomes a reality. In the world of boxing, fights we don’t see often leave big questions.
