Terence Crawford looks to become a four-division titlist this coming Saturday against WBA Super-Welterweight Champion Israil Madrimov.
The pair will face off in Los Angeles as part of Riyadh Season’s first US promotional effort in partnership with Eddie Hearn‘s Matchroom, which promotes the undefeated Madrimov.
To kick off fight week, a face-off photoshoot was organised at the BMO Stadium and Hearn immediately tried to wind ‘Bud’ Crawford up.
In a clip shared by Turki Alalshikh, the American gave it back as just as good, harking back to his first ever world title win against Ricky Burns in Scotland, promoted by Hearn.
“Last time I recall I’m 3 and 0 against you, sir … That’s your best champion.”
Hearn claimed the fight should have been a draw and then jokingly said Crawford still owes him for charging breakfast to his hotel room.
On the Madrimov fight, the promoter said the pound-for-pound superstar looked ‘off.’
“You’re very nervous today. I don’t know what’s wrong with you. Your energy’s all off. I’m worried about you on Saturday, seriously. I don’t think you’re taking this fight right.”
It was all in good sport, but the mind games have well and truly started.
Why Eddie didn't take the $700 🤷🏻♂️😎 pic.twitter.com/jHnybyDiaF
— TURKI ALALSHIKH (@Turki_alalshikh) July 29, 2024
Madrimov is 10-0 in his campaign and a career-long 154 pounder. Crawford, who started out down at 135 before conquering each division on his way here, may be facing his toughest test to date.
The main event is propped up by a stellar undercard which features Isaac ‘Pitbull’ Cruz defending his super-lightweight belt as well as two intriguing heavyweight clashes in Andy Ruiz Jr vs Jarrell Miller and rising star Jared Anderson against Martin Bakole.
