In a surprising twist, promoter Eddie Hearn now leans toward Terence Crawford defeating Canelo Alvarez in their highly anticipated September 13th showdown. Hearn's shift stems from his observations of Alvarez’s recent performance and Crawford's confidence. A loss for Alvarez could reshape perceptions about his career legacy. Meanwhile, Crawford sees this as an opportunity to solidify his place among boxing greats despite the timing late in his career.
Hearn emphasizes Crawford's advantages such as footwork, composure, and self-assurance over Alvarez's perceived decline. While some view Alvarez as limited by flat-footedness and struggles against skilled opponents, Crawford appears ready to capitalize on Alvarez's vulnerabilities. Beyond this bout, Crawford has aspirations to move up in weight class, aiming for matches that would further cement his legacy. Despite competition from a UFC event on the same night, expectations remain high for the fight's viewership success.
The Decline of a Boxing Icon
Alvarez's recent performances have raised concerns about his physical capabilities, particularly after his last match against William Scull. Observers note a marked deterioration in his agility and technique, which contrasts sharply with Crawford's dynamic approach. This perceived weakness has led many, including Hearn, to question whether Alvarez can withstand the challenge posed by Crawford's advanced skill set.
Throughout his illustrious career, Alvarez has faced criticism for relying heavily on power rather than finesse. His inability to adapt to more mobile fighters like Erislandy Lara, Floyd Mayweather Jr., and Austin Trout suggests potential limitations. In contrast, Crawford brings a blend of strategic movement and mental fortitude, traits that could exploit Alvarez's diminishing strengths. Hearn highlights Crawford's unwavering belief in his ability to dominate Alvarez, emphasizing how Crawford views this fight not just as a victory but as a platform to redefine boxing greatness. For fans, this matchup offers a chance to witness either the resurgence of a legend or the ascension of a new one.
Redefining Greatness Through Future Challenges
Should Crawford emerge victorious, his ambitions extend beyond Alvarez, focusing instead on moving up to heavier divisions. Matches against Dmitry Bivol, Artur Beterbiev, or David Benavidez represent opportunities to prove himself among the all-time greats. These potential contests underscore Crawford's determination to transcend mere championship titles and achieve true boxing immortality.
Despite entering this phase later in his career, Crawford remains committed to showcasing his versatility across different weight classes. Moving to 175 pounds signifies both a risk and reward scenario, where triumph could elevate him into discussions about the sport's elite figures. Furthermore, scheduling adjustments ensure the Crawford-Alvarez fight aligns with traditional prime-time slots, enhancing its visibility amidst other sporting events. Even with concurrent UFC programming, anticipation suggests robust engagement levels, reinforcing the global appeal of this historic encounter. Ultimately, Crawford seeks validation through challenges that transcend conventional boundaries, setting the stage for what could be an unforgettable chapter in boxing history.