Why Canelo Vs. Bud Crawford is the combat boxing wants

By Gary Cromie: Boxing followers, put together your self for a hypothetical showdown of epic proportions: Canelo Álvarez vs. Terence “Bud” Crawford. Though this combat will not be confirmed, the mere chance of it occurring in 2025 has the boxing world buzzing. This match isn’t just a daydream; that is probably the most fascinating and intriguing combat in boxing at this time.

The gang’s story

Let’s discuss dimension and expertise first. Canelo Álvarez, the Mexican powerhouse, normally fights round 168 kilos and have become the undisputed king at 168 earlier than being eliminated by the IBF in July 2024. He’s identified for his brutal energy, his iron chin, his counterattacks and sensible punches and his will to win. Alternatively, welterweight maestro and two-time undisputed champion Bud Crawford confirmed he may pack a punch at greater weights like 154, the place he took the belt from the very gifted and unorthodox Madrimov in a chess match that had die-hard followers salivating. . Bud has now gained championship belts in 4 completely different divisions, 135, 140, 147 and 154, and dares to dream at 168.

Crawford’s clear residing and rigorous self-discipline imply his age (at the moment 37) is only a quantity. Not like others who bulk up between fights, Bud stays lean, imply and at all times able to get within the ring. A combat at round 160-163 kilos for Bud would see him stronger whereas nonetheless sustaining his velocity benefit in opposition to Canelo. Canelo’s current fights have seen him develop right into a employee with a questionable motor who hundreds up on single punches – a reality uncovered by Bivol, who schooled him within the artwork of stick and motion. Keep in mind, Canelo could not fend off Munguia or Berlanga regardless of knocking them down and each of these fighters have been thought of straightforward assignments for the Mexican, and lots of specialists have been proper in claiming they have been cherry picks.

Specialists communicate out

In terms of the opinions of the boxing intelligentsia, many imagine that Crawford has the instruments to defeat Canelo. Teddy Atlas, the fiery trainer-turned-commentator, praises Crawford’s IQ and adaptableness, saying, “Crawford can combat any fashion and adapt on the fly.” It is a nightmare for Canelo.

Andre Ward, a grasp strategist in his personal proper, sees Crawford’s versatility as key. “Bud’s capacity to vary place and management distance provides him the benefit,” says Ward.

Stephen “Breadman” Edwards praises Bud’s capacity to regulate distance and dictate tempo. He feedback: “Crawford’s place as normal is second to none. He is aware of tips on how to management the tempo of the combat.

Tim Bradley provides: “Bud’s work ethic and skill to remain in form all yr lengthy goes to pose issues for Canelo. He will not get drained. »

And let’s not neglect Errol Spence Jr., who publicly mentioned, “If Bud fought Canelo, I’d choose Bud as a result of there’s nothing he cannot do when he places his thoughts to it: he is particular.”

Canelo’s apology: a comedy of errors

Now, let’s dive into Canelo’s trove of excuses to dodge Bud. First, he claims that Crawford is “too small.” Actually, Canelo? The identical Bud who simply moved up the burden courses? It is also a bit wealthy coming from somebody who fought at cruiserweight, tipping the scales round 200 kilos, however is just 5 ft 7 inches tall – the identical peak as Bud. Stating that Crawford is just too small to combat at 168 is like saying a giraffe cannot attain excessive branches: utterly absurd.

Then there’s the traditional “Crawford is not a sufficiently big draw.” Cue the canned laughter. Bud’s current fights have attracted a big following, proving that he’s a star in his personal proper, however all through his profession he has been shunned and marginalized – notably by the PBC secure. Saying Bud is not a giant draw is like claiming folks do not watch the Tremendous Bowl for the commercials – full nonsense.

Canelo’s previous with David Benavidez is much more laughable. From claiming that Benavidez did not “deserve” an opportunity (as if knocking out opponent after opponent wasn’t sufficient) to hiding behind the WBC’s safety racket, Canelo’s reluctance smacks of the money cow of the WBC. Maurice Sulaiman and his crew have definitely pampered their golden goose, guaranteeing that it’s protected and sound from any actual risk, and, for my part, have made this man an insupportable Diva.

The query of inheritance

Canelo usually talks about his legacy, however what does that really entail? A collection of rigorously staged fights that keep away from actual competitors – Bivol apart? Historical past doesn’t bear in mind geese and dodges; he remembers the soldiers. Crawford, alternatively, is all about legacy. He is able to enter the lion’s den, face the best challenges and emerge victorious. Canelo seems to have one foot out the door, now not desirous to problem himself in opposition to one of the best however content material to become profitable preventing lesser males.

Ways and successful on factors

For Bud to win, it is all about techniques. His velocity and footwork can frustrate Canelo, maintaining him off-balance and unable to plant his ft for these highly effective pictures. Crawford’s jab, mixed along with his capacity to vary stance, can create angles Canelo has by no means encountered earlier than. Bud’s greatest wager is to remain and transfer, hitting clear pictures and avoiding extended rallies. Over 12 rounds, this method may see Crawford dispatch Canelo, win a factors resolution and show that ability and technique trumps uncooked energy.

The grand finale

In conclusion, this combat is the shock that boxing followers deserve. Crawford is the challenger able to shake issues up, whereas Canelo appears extra serious about sustaining his comfy, rigorously managed standing. If Canelo continues to dodge Bud, he dangers his legacy being tainted not by losses however by missed alternatives. Enter Turki Al-Sheikh, the person who likes to combat one of the best in opposition to one of the best. Love him or hate him, Turki has the assets to lure Canelo into the ring. Though they’re within the twilight of their careers, a combat between Canelo and Crawford can be compelling and profitable. So I hope Canelo stops hiding and rises to the problem. If not, effectively, I will be right here, laughing at his newest spherical of excuses.

Till then, let’s proceed to dream about this potential confrontation and hope that it turns into a actuality. On the planet of boxing, the fights you do not see usually increase the largest questions.