Canelo Alvarez vs. Terence Crawford: Experts and Trainers Weigh In on the Super Fight of 2025
PhilBoxing.com
Wed, 12 Feb 2025
The boxing world is set to witness a historic clash on September 13, 2025, as Canelo Alvarez and Terence Crawford prepare to face off at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. Dubbed the biggest fight of the year, this showdown pits the undisputed super middleweight champion against the pound-for-pound great in a battle that has sparked heated debates among experts, trainers, and fellow fighters.
Canelo Alvarez (62-2-2, 39 KOs), the reigning super middleweight king, will defend his titles against Terence Crawford (41-0, 31 KOs), who is moving up two weight classes to challenge the Mexican superstar. Crawford, a four-division champion, has dominated at welterweight and recently ventured into the 154-pound division. However, stepping up to 168 pounds to face Canelo is a monumental task that has divided opinions in the boxing community.
Experts’ Takes: Can Crawford Overcome the Size Disadvantage?
Legendary heavyweight Mike Tyson has weighed in on Crawford’s move, stating, “Crawford is a special fighter, but moving up to 168 pounds is a huge risk. Canelo is a natural at that weight, and his power is devastating.” Tyson emphasized that Crawford’s technical brilliance and adaptability could be key factors, but the size difference might be too much to overcome.
Keith Thurman, a former welterweight champion, offered a more balanced perspective. While acknowledging Canelo’s dominance, Thurman didn’t rule out Crawford’s chances. “Canelo can be slow at times, and Crawford’s speed and footwork could give him trouble. But let’s not forget, Canelo is a master at cutting off the ring and landing those body shots,” Thurman said.
Jaron Ennis, a rising star in the welterweight division, dropped a bombshell when he questioned Crawford’s ability to compete at super middleweight. “Crawford is a phenomenal fighter, but he’s not built for 168 pounds. Canelo is too big, too strong, and too experienced at that weight,” Ennis stated.
Elite trainers Teddy Atlas and Freddie Roach also shared their insights. Atlas, known for his analytical approach, expressed skepticism about Crawford’s chances. “Crawford is one of the most skilled fighters I’ve ever seen, but this is a bridge too far. Canelo’s physicality and experience at this weight class make him the favorite. It’s a tough ask for Crawford to jump up two divisions and win,” Atlas said.
Freddie Roach, however, offered a more optimistic view. “Crawford’s versatility and fight IQ are second to none. If anyone can figure out a way to beat Canelo at 168, it’s him. But he’ll need a perfect game plan and flawless execution,” Roach noted.
The Stakes: Legacy and History
For Canelo, a win would further solidify his status as one of the greatest boxers of his generation. For Crawford, a victory would cement his legacy as a three-division undisputed champion and arguably the best pound-for-pound fighter of all time. The fight is not just about titles; it’s about defining careers and etching names in boxing history.
The Road to September 13
As the countdown to the fight begins, both fighters are expected to undergo rigorous training camps. Canelo is likely to face IBF champion William Scull in May, aiming to regain the undisputed super middleweight crown before his showdown with Crawford. Meanwhile, Crawford, who last fought in August 2024, may opt for a tune-up fight to acclimate to the higher weight class.
The Canelo Alvarez vs. Terence Crawford bout is more than just a boxing match; it’s a spectacle that will captivate fans worldwide. While experts remain divided on the outcome, one thing is certain: this fight will be remembered as a defining moment in boxing history.
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