Boxing legends Roberto Duran and Sugar Ray Leonard have spoken out ahead of the much anticipated clash between Canelo Alvarez and Terence Crawford.
Canelo is set to defend his undisputed world super-middleweight championship against ‘Bud’ Crawford on Saturday September 13 at the Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Crawford is set to make the jump up to 168lbs for the first time in his career when he faces the Mexican icon next month, having spent most of his accomplished professional career campaigning at welterweight or below.
In an interview with Fight Hub TV, Leonard was asked to share his verdict on Crawford making such a significant jump in weight to face Canelo.
“It’s a big difference. I mean when I fought Donny Lalonde, every time he hit me he hurt me to a degree, not knocking out but he hurt me, put it that way. He can do it, I mean you can do it no question about that.”
It appears that another legend of the sport – Roberto Duran – is in agreement with his former foe’s assessment of Crawford’s chances against Canelo, revealing to Fight Hub TV exactly what he believes the American superstar needs to do to get the victory.
“It’s a tough fight, but it depends on how he [Crawford] comes in, he needs to box and brawl, keep confusing Canelo. Brawl, then box when Canelo expects a brawl. Next round, box when he expects you to brawl. Keep him confused and you can win the fight vs Canelo.”
Whilst he is faced with undoubtedly the toughest test of his career, Crawford could become the first male fighter in boxing history to capture an undisputed championship in three weight classes, having already achieved this feat at super-lightweight and welterweight.
