Are the stars aligning for a bout between Terence Crawford and Canelo Alvarez in the near future?
After Terence Crawford gave a career-defining display against Errol Spence Jr. in July, all eyes were on whether the rematch clause would put the pair back in front of each other. Previous reports targeted a December date that eventually came and went. However, Spence required an eye surgery that kept him sidelined. Unfortunately for PBC, the delay was costly.
The contractual obligation for that rematch has now expired, concluding their one-fight deal and leaving the promotional/managerial hybrid without Terence Crawford among its stable of notable fighters.
Terence Crawford’s Exit: Bad Timing for PBC, Perfect Timing for Canelo?
“Bud” wasn’t the only star to leave PBC this week. Just hours removed from Terence Crawford’s departure, reports surfaced stating that Canelo Alvarez and PBC have cut their three-fight deal short. Alvarez’s lopsided decision win over former light middleweight champion Jermell Charlo in September was the lone bout that came to fruition during the brief partnership.
A Cinco de Mayo matchup between Alvarez and Jermell’s twin brother, former WBC middleweight champ Jermall Charlo, was scrapped due to “little commercial demand.”
While all signs point to Canelo setting his sights on a super middleweight title defense against Matchroom’s Jaime Munguia, perhaps the time is right for Terence Crawford.
Do Terence Crawford and Canelo Alvarez Want to Fight?
Terence Crawford has been vocal about a potential fight against Alvarez. After acquiring world titles in three weight classes and remaining undefeated, the 36-year-old appears to be chasing legacy. A jump up the scale to challenge boxing’s biggest star would undoubtedly provide the air of greatness he’s seeking.
On the other hand, Alvarez has not been so enthusiastic about facing Crawford. In a recent interview with Box Azteca, he said that the fight gave him “everything to lose and nothing to gain.” He likely drew this conclusion from first-hand experience.
While some looked at his victory over Charlo as further proof of his dominance, others criticized him for facing a smaller man. Alvarez’s jump in weight also left a permanent stain on the legacy of Sergey Kovalev, who he finished to claim the WBO light heavyweight title. In the modern landscape of boxing, the risk/reward ratio is just not in his favor.
However, if Alvarez is open to a bout with Terence Crawford, it will signal a great moment between two all-time greats, a throwback to when the best fighters consistently sought the greatest challenges.
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