Terence Crawford looks ahead to the fight with fellow four-division champion Saul “Canelo” Alvarez, and he’s not shy about explaining why he thinks it’s a legacy-defining moment in boxing. He laid it all out during the World Boxing Council convention, explaining why fans should sit up and take note.
As Crawford says, “That’s why the fight should happen so that there are all the answers to the questions that everyone is asking.” He’s aware of the size and strength advantage Canelo brings, but refuses to be intimidated: “Canelo is a bigger, stronger fighter, he’s got a lot of experience like me, he’s been around a long time.” I have speed, movement, long arms, they were about the same height, so it’s an interesting fight.”
Crawford credits his versatility to deep preparation: “I think I train so hard and long studying boxing. That way, if I need it, I have it. If not, it is what it is, so I just practice what I preach. I don’t know what style I’m going to fight Canelo, I just know I’m going to fight him. He is nothing if not confident, jokingly revealing that he is not interested in losing: “Yes, I always want to win. If I’m competing against someone, I want to do it all the way, not just for fun.”
And if Canelo isn’t game? Crawford shrugs: “We’re looking forward to the fight against Canelo. If so…if not, good luck to Canelo. He is a tremendous champion…he has the right to choose who he wants to fight.” Even the concern about the injury does not bother him: “It is what it is.” It’s not something I can’t handle.”
Nor will he underestimate Kanello’s speed: “I won’t count on him being slow.” To me, beating Canelo would be one of the greatest achievements in boxing history. So, I’m looking to leave a legacy that will be talked about for years to come.” Assessing the historical comparisons, he summed it up: “Donny Lalonde was not at the level of Canelo Alvarez…so it’s two different fights.