Terence Crawford’s decision to vacate his WBA welterweight title has paved the way for Eimantas Stanionis to ascend to the new WBA welterweight champion. This change in the 147-lb division could potentially benefit IBF champ Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis if he chooses to remain at welterweight and aims to become undisputed. However, it seems unlikely that we will see a matchup between Boots and Stanionis, as negotiations at the welterweight level have proven to be challenging.
By relinquishing his WBA welterweight title, Crawford seems determined to shift his focus towards pursuing a fight against Canelo Alvarez at 168. This strategic move suggests that Crawford is willing to forgo his current title in favor of chasing a more lucrative opportunity in a higher weight class. The allure of facing Canelo, one of the biggest names in boxing, appears to be a driving force behind Crawford’s decision.
Crawford’s potential path to becoming an undisputed champion in a third weight class comes with its own set of challenges. The idea of facing the likes of Israil Madrimov, Sebastian Fundora, and the winner of the Tszyu-Murtazaliev fight presents a daunting task for the 36-year-old fighter. With age catching up to him, Crawford’s chances of success in these matchups may be dwindling, especially considering the flaws exposed in his recent performances.
Promoter Eddie Hearn’s skepticism about Crawford’s intentions to pursue the undisputed route at 154 reflects the high stakes involved in such a venture. Crawford’s decision to hold out for a potential showdown with Canelo highlights his appetite for a significant payday before considering retirement. However, with Crawford’s limited activity in the ring, the window of opportunity for such a lucrative matchup may be closing rapidly.
In light of these developments, it may be in Crawford’s best interest to reassess his approach to securing a fight against Canelo. Vacating his WBA 154-lb title and moving up to 168 could offer Crawford a fresh start and potentially increase his chances of landing a bout with the Mexican superstar. By strategically selecting opponents like Christian Mbilli to bolster his credibility, Crawford could position himself as a more enticing prospect for a showdown with Canelo.
Terence Crawford’s decision to vacate his WBA welterweight title has significant implications for his future in the sport of boxing. While the pursuit of a fight against Canelo Alvarez at 168 holds promise for Crawford’s career, the challenges of becoming undisputed in a third weight class loom large. With strategic planning and calculated risks, Crawford may yet carve out a path towards achieving his ultimate goals in the sport.
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