Terence Crawford is a four-weight world champion but wants to make that five by jumping up a further two divisions to face Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez.
The switch-hitter from Omaha shot to the top of most pound-for-pound best lists when he beat Errol Spence Jr by stoppage last year to become undisputed at welterweight. It was ‘Bud’s 31st knockout in 40 fights.
He then moved up to 154 pounds and beat champion Israil Madrimov over the distance, the points win leading some to question whether or not his power carried up with him and how that may affect a fight with the heavier Canelo.
At the post-fight press conference, Spence – who was down three times in the bout – was asked about Crawford’s power. He said that Crawford hits hard but that his real weapon is when he throws his shots.
“I got a feel for his power probably like first, second round. You know, he’s a strong dude, but you know, everybody at this top level have some type of power. But I think because my timing was off he was catching me in between shots.”
Asked more recently about the fight itself, Spence gave his former opponent his backing.
“I’ll be going for ‘Bud’ if he fights Canelo, I’ll be going for him. I don’t know if he’s going to win or lose but I’ll definitely be going for Crawford. I think if anybody can pull it off he can pull it off.”
Crawford would require adding another 14 pounds to meet Canelo at super-middleweight where he currently holds three of the four major belts.
Whilst initially dismissive of the fight, the Mexican has made it clear that he will consider any offers made to him. He does, however, believe he will get little credit for beating a smaller man.
Some in the sport believe that if Crawford can’t land the match-up then he will retire.
