Trainer Stephen Edwards has stirred debate by suggesting that Terence Crawford possesses the tools to move up to 168 pounds and defeat Canelo Alvarez, the unified super middleweight champion. While Edwards acknowledges Crawford’s challenges against larger opponents, he believes the 34-year-old Canelo’s recent performances make him a beatable target for the 37-year-old Crawford.
A Vulnerable Champion
Canelo Alvarez (62-2-2, 39 KOs), once known for his devastating knockouts, has failed to stop an opponent in his last six fights. His last KO came three years ago against Caleb Plant in November 2021. As Canelo approaches his 35th birthday in July, critics like Edwards argue that he is no longer the unstoppable force he once was.
“Canelo lets guys off the hook nowadays,” Edwards said in an interview with Fighthype. “When he was at his peak, he would finish those opponents. Now, he doesn’t have that extra push in his gas tank.”
Canelo’s recent decision wins over opponents like Edgar Berlanga, Jaime Munguia, and Jermell Charlo have further fueled the perception that his power and endurance are waning. However, as one of boxing’s wealthiest athletes, with an estimated net worth of $250 million, Canelo is in no rush to take risks unless it suits his long-term plans.
Crawford’s Case for Super Middleweight
Terence Crawford (41-0, 31 KOs) has been dominant across multiple weight classes, but moving up to 168 would be uncharted territory. Edwards is confident in Crawford’s conditioning, adaptability, and technical skills, arguing that these attributes could give him an edge over Canelo.
“Crawford’s arms are longer, his gas tank is better, and I’ve never seen him tired,” Edwards stated. “If Bud fought Canelo at 168, he’d be full of energy and wouldn’t need to weigh in at the limit. His speed and movement would be critical.”
Edwards recalled Crawford’s 2016 performance against Viktor Postol at 140 pounds, describing it as a blueprint for defeating Canelo. “That fight showed Crawford’s genius. He has the ability to adjust mid-fight, and that’s what it would take to beat Canelo,” he said.
The Challenges Ahead
Despite Edwards’ confidence, there are doubts about Crawford’s ability to compete at super middleweight. His recent debut at 154 pounds against Israil Madrimov revealed some vulnerabilities, with Crawford’s punches appearing less effective at the higher weight. Critics argue that without knockout power, Crawford would struggle to sway the judges against a hard-hitter like Canelo.
Moreover, Edwards himself concedes that Crawford would be outmatched by fighters like David Benavidez, David Morrell, Artur Beterbiev, or Dmitry Bivol, whom he considers too large and technically skilled.
Is the Fight Likely?
As of now, there is no indication that Canelo Alvarez is considering a bout with Terence Crawford. Both fighters have lucrative options elsewhere, and a matchup would likely require significant financial incentives to materialize.
Still, the possibility of Crawford moving up to 168 to challenge one of boxing’s biggest names adds intrigue to both fighters’ careers. Whether Crawford can replicate the brilliance of his past performances against a champion like Canelo remains to be seen, but the prospect has already ignited discussions across the boxing world.
For now, the spotlight remains on Canelo’s next move and whether Crawford will take the leap into super middleweight history.
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