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Crawford’s Surprise Tease: 3 Potential Opponents That Make Sense
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After making history against Canelo Alvarez, Terence Crawford and Turki Alalshikh teased a ‘surprise’ on social media. Here are three opponents who could be part of that next chapter

Highlights:

  • Crawford and Turki Alalshikh teased a 'surprise' on social media.
  • Three realistic opponents
  • Key timing factors.

If you thought Terence Crawford had reached the finish line after dominating Canelo Alvarez, think again. In front of a sellout crowd at Allegiant Stadium in September, Crawford made history—cementing his place at the very peak of boxing. But with the dust now settled, the champ and Turki Alalshikh have already taken to social media to tease what could be coming next.

The Tease

Turki’s post, shared by Ring Magazine, read:
‘The champ has a lot of surprises for his city and for his future. He’s going to rest now for one or two months, then we will tell you the surprise.’

The mention of ‘his city’ immediately stands out. Could Crawford be gearing up for a massive event in Omaha, the hometown where he’s been a proven draw for years? At this point in his career, Crawford has earned the right to call the shots as the A-side. A homecoming super-fight would fit perfectly into that narrative—if he can lure the right opponent.

Jermell Charlo

Crawford has had Jermell Charlo on his radar long before the Spence fight took place. On The Porter Way Podcast, Crawford made it clear where he stood: ‘I don’t like Jermell for the simple fact that I feel he’s a fake individual.’ That type of personal edge makes this matchup even more intriguing. With Crawford hinting at 160 after the Canelo fight, and Charlo inactive since his lackluster showing against Alvarez, the timing could be right for this long-discussed showdown.

Sebastian Fundora or Keith Thurman Winner

On October 25th, Fundora and Thurman will meet in a fight with clear implications for Crawford’s future. Thurman and Crawford were kept apart for years due to promotional politics, but that barrier has now been broken. If Thurman scores the upset, the storyline practically writes itself. But Fundora, with his unusual height and style, presents a tougher puzzle. Should he get past Thurman—as many predict—a Fundora vs. Crawford clash would be must-see TV.

Canelo Álvarez (Rematch)

No surprise here. A second meeting with Canelo Alvarez is still the biggest fight out there. Their first bout was historic, and a rematch would be an even larger spectacle. The only question is timing. Canelo is recovering from elbow surgery, and it remains unclear if he’ll return the same fighter. Still, if both sides want it, a Crawford-Canelo II would be hard to deny.

The Wrap-Up

According to Turki Alalshikh, there are exciting plans ahead for Crawford. Whether it’s a grudge match with Charlo, a test against Fundora or Thurman, or a blockbuster Canelo rematch, one thing is certain—if anyone can deliver these fights, it’s Turki. Until then, fans will be waiting for the surprise reveal, knowing Crawford’s next move could once again change the landscape of boxing.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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