Renowned boxing promoter Oscar De La Hoya has voiced his dissent regarding the perception of the upcoming Canelo Alvarez versus Terence Crawford bout as the "biggest fight in boxing." Highlighting the advanced ages and declining performances of both fighters, De La Hoya argues that neither Alvarez nor Crawford is at their peak form anymore. Despite being marketed as a monumental event by Turki Alalshikh, the reality may not live up to the hype. With questions surrounding their recent performances and physical conditions, this matchup might not be the pinnacle many believe it to be.
In an interview, De La Hoya pointed out the challenges posed by age for both boxers. Terence Crawford will soon turn 38, and his last performance against Israil Madrimov was far from impressive. Similarly, Alvarez, nearing 35, has shown signs of wear and tear over the past three years. His sluggish pace in recent matches suggests that his once formidable skills are diminishing rapidly. The comparison between these two legends and all-time greats like Sugar Ray Leonard or Sugar Ray Robinson further underscores the gap in legacy and achievements.
Alvarez's recent fights have demonstrated a significant decline in energy and effectiveness. In his latest bout against William Scull on May 3rd, he threw just 152 punches, an alarmingly low number indicative of his waning capabilities. This statistic aligns with De La Hoya’s observation that Alvarez seems to be operating at only 40% of his former capacity after two decades in professional boxing. The analogy of an old car struggling to perform aptly describes Alvarez's current state, where speed and endurance are noticeably compromised.
On the other side, Crawford's reluctance to face top-tier opponents at super middleweight raises doubts about his readiness for such a high-stakes encounter. Following his lackluster showing against Madrimov, Crawford appears hesitant to test himself against stronger adversaries. This cautious approach contrasts sharply with the bold moves made by historical icons, who consistently sought challenging matchups to cement their legacies. As a result, Crawford's resume lacks the depth expected from a fighter vying for legendary status.
The notion of this fight being the "biggest" in boxing history is thus met with skepticism. Fans and analysts alike must consider the realities of each boxer's condition and career trajectory before jumping onto the promotional bandwagon. While undoubtedly intriguing, the Alvarez-Crawford showdown does not carry the weight or promise initially suggested by its promoters.
Ultimately, the discourse around this matchup highlights the importance of critical evaluation in sports promotion. Both fighters bring illustrious careers to the table, yet their current states suggest a less-than-spectacular outcome. By acknowledging these truths, boxing enthusiasts can appreciate the match for what it truly represents—a testament to perseverance rather than dominance.