Crawford vs Alvarez: Two Boxing Icons Collide in 2025

Crawford vs Alvarez: Two Boxing Icons Collide in 2025

Las Vegas, Nevada – Terence Crawford has never been the type to play it safe. Throughout his career, he’s consistently taken on challenges that others might shy away from, pushing himself to new heights with each fight. Whether it’s dominating in different weight classes, facing tough opponents head-on, or now preparing for the highly anticipated Crawford vs Alvarez showdown, Crawford’s mindset is clear: boxing is about constant growth and taking risks.

Now, the undefeated champion is gearing up for what may be the biggest challenge of his life—moving up two weight divisions to fight Saul “Canelo” Alvarez, one of boxing’s most celebrated fighters. The fight, which is in the works for September, is already generating buzz as a historic showdown between two of the sport’s biggest names.

“This is what great fighters do,” Crawford said on Friday during an interview with BoxingScene at The Cosmopolitan. “You test yourself against the odds, and you push yourself to be better than people think you can be.”

Crawford had just come from supporting his gym mate Steven Nelson at a weigh-in for Nelson’s fight against Diego Pacheco, a top WBO contender from Canelo’s camp. But despite the busy evening, Crawford was focused and energized, ready to talk about his upcoming plans.

Taking the Leap

At 37 years old, Crawford has already done more than most fighters dream of. With an impeccable record of 41 wins (31 by knockout) and zero losses, he’s conquered multiple weight divisions and built a reputation as one of the best fighters of his generation. In 2023, he put on a clinic against Errol Spence Jr., a former three-belt champion, winning in dominant fashion. Then, later that year, he handed Israil Madrimov—an unbeaten, younger opponent—a unanimous decision loss.

But now, Crawford is aiming even higher. His next target is Canelo Alvarez, the Mexican superstar with a 62-2-2 record and 39 knockouts to his name. Canelo has been a dominant force in the sport, and until recently, he held the title of undisputed super middleweight champion. Facing him is no small task, especially for Crawford, who will be moving up to fight at 168 pounds.

And Crawford knows exactly what people are saying about this matchup.

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“People are out there saying, ‘You’re too small,’ or ‘You don’t belong in the ring with someone like Canelo,’” Crawford said. “But that’s the kind of talk that gets me fired up. Great fighters shine brightest when the odds are stacked against them.”

Preparing for the Big Stage

One of the biggest challenges for Crawford will be adjusting to the new weight class. At 168 pounds, he’ll be fighting bigger, stronger opponents, and Canelo is no stranger to using his size and power to dominate. But Crawford isn’t worried. In fact, he’s embracing the process of getting his body ready for the new division.

“I know I’m going to feel great at 168,” Crawford said with confidence. “I don’t have any doubts about that. There’s a lot to prepare for, sure, but that’s part of the journey. Boxing is about hitting those milestones, one at a time, and I’m taking my time to do this right.”

Meanwhile, Canelo has other plans before their September clash. He’s expected to fight on his usual Cinco de Mayo date in May, but his opponent for that fight hasn’t been announced yet. For Crawford, though, the only thing on his mind is Canelo.

“I’m not fighting anyone else,” Crawford said. “My focus is on this fight, and I want to be 100% ready when the time comes.”

Source: Terence Crawford on the Canelo Alvarez fight: ‘That’s what great fighters are all about’

Facing a Legend

Canelo Alvarez is no ordinary fighter. Over the years, he’s built a legacy as one of the toughest, most skilled boxers in the world. He’s only lost twice in his career—once to Floyd Mayweather Jr. back in 2013 when Canelo was just 23 years old, and more recently to Dmitry Bivol in a light heavyweight title fight. Known for his iron chin and aggressive style, Canelo has been nearly unstoppable in the ring.

So, what’s Crawford’s game plan for taking on such a formidable opponent?

“I don’t go into fights with just one strategy,” Crawford explained. “I like to feel out my opponents, figure out what they’re doing, and then adjust as the fight goes on. That’s what I’ve always done, and it’s worked every time. I believe my ability to adapt is my biggest strength.”

Crawford also pointed out that his record speaks for itself. As one of America’s top fighters over the last decade, he’s shown time and time again that he knows how to close the show.

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“Canelo’s great, no doubt about it,” Crawford said. “But I’ve proven that I can figure out anyone who steps into the ring with me. This fight will be no different.”

Crawford vs Alvarez: Two Boxing Icons Collide in 2025

Breaking Down Barriers

Getting to this point hasn’t been easy for Crawford. For years, he was tied to a contract with Top Rank, which made it difficult for him to face the best welterweights from rival promotions. As a result, some fans questioned whether he was truly being tested against the top-tier fighters in his division.

That all changed in recent years, thanks in part to Saudi Arabian promoter Turki Alalshikh. Alalshikh has become a major player in boxing, investing heavily in making big fights happen. In 2023, he helped organize Crawford’s headlining fight in his U.S. debut card, and now, he’s playing a key role in setting up the Crawford-Canelo showdown.

“I’m really grateful for what Turki has done for the sport,” Crawford said. “He’s not just about the business side—he’s a fan, and you can tell. He’s passionate about giving fans the fights they want to see, and he’s putting the money and effort behind it to make it happen.”

A Fight for the Ages

As the boxing world waits for the official announcement, excitement is already building. Two fighters with four-division championship credentials, stepping into the ring together? That’s the kind of fight fans dream about.

For Crawford, this is more than just another fight. It’s a chance to cement his legacy as one of the greatest boxers in history. And he’s ready to give it everything he’s got.

“This is what boxing is all about—taking risks, challenging yourself, and giving the fans something unforgettable,” Crawford said. “I’m excited about this fight, and I can’t wait to show the world what I can do.”

With September on the horizon, all eyes are on Crawford and Canelo. This isn’t just another boxing match—it’s a moment that could define the careers of two legendary fighters.

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