BY BOXING HIT STAFF-
The boxing world is abuzz with talks of a potential fight between Canelo Alvarez and Terence Crawford. However, according to boxing pod host Paulie Malignaggi, Canelo is not keen on this matchup. Malignaggi believes that Canelo’s reluctance to fight Crawford stems from a desire for easy pickings in the later stages of his career. By demanding a substantial sum of money for the fight, Canelo is, in a way, avoiding a challenging matchup while maximizing his earnings.
Malignaggi’s comments also shed light on the changing landscape of boxing. Popular fighters like Canelo now hold significant power over the sanctioning bodies. They can dictate terms and choose their opponents, often avoiding mandatory challenges. This shift in power dynamics has implications for the sport, with the possibility of a single governing body replacing the current four sanctioning bodies in the future.
On the other hand, Terence Crawford’s ambitions to face Canelo at a higher weight class may be fueled by a desire for a big payday before retirement. Crawford, who has been campaigning for the fight, sees it as an opportunity to elevate his profile and secure a lucrative deal. However, Malignaggi points out that Crawford’s recent fight against Madrimov showcased his limitations in higher weight classes, raising doubts about his ability to compete against top contenders.
Malignaggi also highlights the fear of losing that looms over fighters like Crawford. Moving up to 154 pounds exposes Crawford to a new level of competition, where he may struggle against elite opponents. The risk of defeat could jeopardize his long-term goals, including a potential showdown with Canelo. Crawford’s reluctance to face the top fighters at 154 may stem from a fear of tarnishing his legacy with losses against younger, hungry contenders.
Looking ahead, Crawford faces a dilemma in his career. While a fight against Canelo promises financial rewards, it also carries the risk of defeat and damage to his reputation. As he navigates the challenges of the 154-pound division, Crawford must weigh his options carefully. The prospect of facing formidable opponents like Serhii Bohachuk, Vergil Ortiz Jr, Tim Tszyu, and Sebastian Fundora looms large, presenting a daunting road ahead for the skilled boxer.
The potential matchup between Canelo Alvarez and Terence Crawford represents a clash of ambitions and challenges in the world of boxing. While Canelo seeks to maximize his earnings and avoid risky fights, Crawford aims to secure his legacy with a high-profile victory. The dynamics of power and fear of defeat add layers of complexity to this narrative, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the sport. As fans await further developments, the ultimate outcome of this storyline remains uncertain.
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