Terence Crawford became a four-weight world champion this weekend in LA, handing Israil Madrimov his first defeat via unanimous decision.
It wasn’t as dominant a performance fans have become used to from the 36-year-old, but Madrimov was not to be taken lightly even despite only having eleven pro fights prior to this one. An impressive amateur run, an unorthodox style and solid power make him a tough night for anyone.
The back and forth, technical affair had a number of swing rounds and there has been some debate as to the final scorecards – 116-112, 115-113 and 115-113 all in favour of Crawford.
Regardless, ‘Bud’ has found success at 154 and can push on with his goal of facing Saul ‘Canelo‘ Alvarez up at 168. Riyadh Season’s Turki Alalshikh has confirmed that he has sent an offer the Mexican’s way.
With the Madrimov performance now as a measuring stick, many feel the pound-for-pound star from Omaha should avoid another weight jump. That includes Ryan Garcia, who took to social media post-fight to give his opinion.
“Crawford can not beat canelo … Let’s be real the left jab is connecting for Crawford. The left hook is key for Madrimov. If he can land this he will stop everything from Crawford … Regardless of the outcome, y’all said Crawford is [pound-for-pound] – don’t look like this. [Madrimov] has 11 fights … Canelo KOs this guy for fun.”
CANELO KO THIS GUY FOR FUN
— RYAN GARCIA (@RyanGarcia) August 4, 2024
Garcia said the fight was either going to be a ‘draw or a robbery’ before sending an audio note claiming that Madrimov should’ve had his hand raised as well as accusing ‘Bud’ Crawford of having a poor résumé.
On the Canelo fight, Crawford said that it will happen for the right money but was less enthusiastic in calling out the 61-2-2 Mexican than he has been in the past.
Garcia – who has previously trained alongside Canelo – is currently banned from competing following a positive doping test and one-year suspension stemming from his fight with Devin Haney, a win overturned to a no contest.
