Israil Madrimov has fought and lost to both Terence Crawford and Vergil Ortiz Jr, two halves of an intriguing match-up and one that could happen should Crawford decide to drop back down to super-welterweight in the future.
Uzbekistan’s Madrimov had the pleasure of welcoming Crawford to the 154lbs division, putting his WBA World Title on the line and losing over the distance. Impressively, he chose not to take a lesser comeback fight and faced Ortiz six months later.
Ortiz scored 21 knockouts in his first 21 fights, though encountered a tough Serhii Bohachuk in fight 22, winning a somewhat controversial decision after being floored twice, and beating Madrimov on points in his latest outing, number 23.
Speaking to Fight Hub TV, Madrimov had praise for both man but backed ‘Bud’ as the biggest puncher.
“Virgil did surprise me with being very responsible defensively. He has a very good, stiff jab. He’s overall physically strong, but as far as the power and punches – it’s solid, it’s not crazy – Crawford is a sharper, bigger puncher than Virgil.”
In a translated portion of the interview, Madrimov described Ortiz as ‘average:
“As they say, he’s average. Crawford is stronger though. If we’re comparing. His punch was top-notch.
Ortiz is looking to return to the ring around October, the same time that Jaron Ennis will make his debut in the division. There is a view to match the two top talents in early 2026, with ‘Boots’ Ennis having already signed his part of the deal.
Meanwhile, Crawford moves up another two divisions in September to challenge Canelo Alvarez – a true test of his power given the Mexican has never touched the canvas in his long career let alone be stopped inside the distance.
Though many feel that Crawford may retire post-Canelo fight, particularly if he wins, he has hinted that a return to super-welter could be on the cards. Ortiz will be ready and waiting.
