The prospect of a Terence Crawford versus Canelo Alvarez super-fight is a tantalizing one for boxing fans. Both are elite-level fighters, each dominating multiple weight divisions. Crawford is undefeated and considered one of the most complete fighters of his generation, known for his switch hitting, while Canelo has solidified himself as the face of modern boxing and top Pay-Per-View star. But despite Crawford’s undeniable talents, I believe he would face an uphill battle in a potential fight against Canelo.
First and foremost, weight plays a significant role in this matchup. Canelo, who has ventured from light middleweight (154 pounds) all the way up to light heavyweight (175 pounds) in his career, has consistently shown that he thrives in larger weight classes. Crawford, on the other hand, is a natural lightweight who dominated welterweight, and while he has fought at light welterweight in his most recent bout against Israil Madrimov for the vacant WBO title he didn’t look as powerful. The ability to move up, is a fundamental difference in strength and size when comparing the two. Canelo’s short and compact frame is built for power and aggression in these higher divisions, and this would give him a natural advantage. Crawford, with his long and lanky frame, despite his elite skills, would be giving up a size and strength advantage that could prove insurmountable.
Canelo’s boxing IQ and experience at the highest level are unmatched. Having fought and defeated some of the best in the world—such as Gennadiy Golovkin, Sergey Kovalev, and Caleb Plant—Canelo has proven time and again that he can adapt to different styles and overcome the challenges posed by opponents with diverse skill sets. Crawford is undoubtedly a smart fighter, but he hasn’t yet fought at the same elite level as Canelo in terms of opposition. Canelo’s ability to adjust mid-fight, whether by switching his defense or ramping up the pressure when necessary, gives him a psychological edge over Crawford. This is not a man who is easily rattled or outfoxed.
Moreover, Canelo’s punching power, particularly in the later rounds, is brutal and has been a key factor in his success against larger opponents. While Crawford has respectable power, it’s not to the same degree as Canelo’s, especially in the higher weight divisions. Crawford who destroyed guys at welterweight couldn’t take out a stationary target like Israil Madrimov when he moved up to 154 pounds. Canelo has the ability to wear down opponents with his precise, damaging shots, and his body punching is exceptional, which could severely affect Crawford’s ability to operate effectively over the full 12 rounds.
Defensively, Canelo has also shown a level of skill that Crawford may struggle with. Canelo’s head movement, shoulder roll, and ability to counter effectively make him difficult to hit cleanly. Crawford is an excellent defensive fighter as well, but has shown he drops his hands and leaves himself open to get countered. Crawford may not be able to rely on his elusiveness as much against Canelo’s ferocious attack. Canelo’s counterpunching—particularly against smaller fighters—has been lethal, and Crawford would likely find himself in unfamiliar territory when trying to make up ground.
Finally, it’s important to consider Canelo’s mental toughness and ability to handle adversity. Throughout his career, Canelo has faced moments of difficulty, whether it was early rounds with Golovkin or the challenge of moving up in weight to face Kovalev. Each time, he responded with poise, grit, and a willingness to push through. Crawford is a tremendous fighter who is equally as tough, but he has never been tested in the same way Canelo has.
In conclusion, while Terence Crawford is undoubtedly one of the best boxers of his era, there are too many variables working against him in a fight with Canelo Alvarez. Crawford in his mid 30’s looks to have slowed down in his last fight, he also struggled against an opponent who was similar build and height to Canelo. Crawford has never fought someone who was more powerful than him and equally as skilled, this is why I pick Canelo to beat Crawford if they do meet in the ring.
