Terence Crawford became a four-weight world champion this month. As perhaps the most talented fighter in the sport and one that is not restricted to a single division, he has a long queue of potential opponents looking to challenge themselves.
The 36-year-old from Omaha won a unanimous decision against Israil Madrimov to take the WBA Super-Welterweight World Title at the first time of asking.
Post-fight, he has made it clear that the one man he wants next is Saul ‘Canelo‘ Alvarez – a fight that would require a further jump up two weight-classes. The Mexican is scheduled for a September 14 bout against Edgar Berlanga, so talks, if any, must wait until after then.
In the meantime, Teofimo Lopez has offered himself up as an opponent. Like Crawford with the Canelo fight, Lopez would need to move up two divisions as he is currently a super-lightweight world champion.
Speaking to Luke Thomas, ‘Bud’s coach Brian McIntyre said there was zero chance of the fight happening even despite Lopez’ animated calls for it.
“Man, I don’t pay attention to that dude, man. I don’t understand him, but he’s doing what he’s trying to do to get that fight. Bud is not gonna do it. I’m gonna tell you that right now, he won’t do it. That’s nothing. If he want to go fight somebody and jump up in weight, have him go fight Boots or somebody. He wanna go up there, that’s the king at 147 now. Go up there and fight him.”
Crawford has in the past branded Lopez a ‘chump’ and told him to stop using his name for promotion.
Given Teo’s tendency for pre-fight entertainment and his engaging fighting style, ‘BoMac’ was then asked if the fight would be a little fun. The esteemed coach said the only part that could apply to was his man knocking the 140 champion out.
“Yeah it’d be fun seeing him get his ass knocked out. I’d like to see that part. Hell no [it’s not competitive.]”
Lopez – who has said he would exploit an ageing Crawford if the fight was to happen – was last out in June with a successful title defence against Steve Claggett by unanimous decision. He is expected out later this year and may target a move to welterweight as McIntyre suggests.
Crawford has not ruled out retirement if he can’t land the Canelo fight.
