Title: Crawford’s Canelo Dream: Too Old, Too Small, Too Late for a Real Challenge?
In the world of boxing,.notify.url=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://boxingscene.com/2022/09/10/crawfords-canelo-dream-too-old-to-small-too-late-real-challenge/” : blockquote activists tirelessly pursue the biggest and the best fights, constantly seeking the next big test to prove their worth. For WBO welterweight champion Terence Crawford, a matchup against hometown hero Canelo Alvarez at 160 pounds has long been the holy grail of his career. Yet, with Canelo’s recent performance and age-related decline, one must question whether a fight with the mercurial Mexican superstar would be too old, too small, or too late for a meaningful challenge.
The Crawford-Canelo dream was born during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, when the boxing world was left in shambles. “Bud” Crawford, a three-division world champion, was eager to face the then-top-ranked Canelo, who had just KO’d Avni Yıldırım to become the WBC’s top dog at 160 pounds. The rumors swirled, and the boxing fraternity sensed a potential superfight brewing. However, Canelo’s inactivity, compounded by his struggles against mandatory challengers, saw the match-up relegated to the backburner.
Fast-forward to 2022, and Canelo’s status as a top welterweight has raised eyebrows. Since 2019’s crushing defeat to Billy Joe Saunders, the Mexican has looked, at times, like a shell of his former self. His struggles against Gennady Golovkin, and, more recently, Bivol, have left many wondering if the 33-year-old is indeed a fading light in the world of boxing. With a palealian performance against Rocky Fielding, his supposed to-be-crowned best win, could this be the end of Canelo’s championship reign?
Crawford, 34, has also shown some signs of decline, with his KO loss to Pacquiao and draw against Shawn Porter. Many believe this fight is now an opportunity for Crawford to prove his doubters wrong and cement his legacy. But has the moment passed, or is this one fight too little, too late? Crawford’s recent move up to 160 pounds might be too aggressive, as his size disadvantage against a powerful, rangy fighter like Canelo could lead to a disastrous outcome. Furthermore, Canelo’s superior skillset, with his lightning-quick hands and precision footwork, could render Crawford’s excellent boxing IQ and footwork less effective.
Ultimately, a Crawford-Canelo match, should it come to fruition, would be an interesting departure from the norm. The oddsmakers would need to rework their predictions, and pundits would reassess their expectations. In an era where the term “fight of the century” is slapped on everything, this match would indeed be historic, even if the performances might not live up to the bill. While a win for Crawford would boost his legacy, a victory for Canelo would serve as a reminder of his relevance. As we look to the future, one thing is certain: this fight, whenever it happens, will be a true sideshow attraction, more laughter and entertainment than real substance.
