Old Sparring Video Of Terence Crawford Sparks Skepticism Ahead Of Canelo Alvarez Fight

The video reportedly dates back to when Crawford was a lightweight (135 lbs), which is a division he hasn't fought at since 2014. Adames (24-1-1, 18 KOs) was fighting at welterweight (147 lbs) at the time, meaning there was at least a 12 lbs difference between the two boxers.

Despite the video being recorded a long time ago, critics use it as pinning point to why Crawford's size won't translate to super-middleweight. "Bud's" last fight was Aug. 3rd, 2024, where he beat Israil Madrimov by unanimous decision to win the WBA junior middleweight title, his first fight at 154 lbs. Now, he is jumping up 14 more pounds to fight the cash cow of boxing.

Although he has critics, many supporters have defended Crawford, pointing out that sparring sessions don't really emulate a real fight. Not to mention that sparring is usually the time for fighters to practice and implement new arsenals to their game.

The video may add fuel to the haters, but realistically it's not a representation of Crawford's odds against Alvarez (63-2-2, 39 KOs). And on top of that, "Bud" is the rare breed of special boxers that could adapt to any scenario he's put in. He's not the No. 3 pound-for-pound in the Ring Magazine rankings for no reason.

Canelo vs Crawford is a fight that mixes the entertainment value of Riyadh Season with the narrative of the best fighting the best. Whatever happens Sept. 13th, let's hope it lives up to the hype.