Shawn Porter Sounds Alarm on Terence Crawford vs. Canelo Alvarez: Will “Bud” Be Broken?
As Terence Crawford prepares to face Israil Madrimov at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles, all eyes are already shifting to a potentially monumental clash between Crawford and Canelo Álvarez. While Crawford aims for a fourth division title, former opponent Shawn Porter has raised red flags about the proposed match-up, adding fuel to the speculation and debate.
Crawford’s Ambitious Pursuit
Terence Crawford’s career trajectory has been nothing short of extraordinary. Since dismantling Errol Spence Jr. last year, Crawford has set his sights on the unified super middleweight champion, Canelo Álvarez. This potential bout represents not just another title but a chance for Crawford to cement his legacy across multiple weight classes.
Despite Canelo’s nonchalant attitude toward the challenge, fans are abuzz with excitement and apprehension. Crawford’s move up the weight classes, particularly targeting the dominant Canelo, is seen as both a thrilling and daunting prospect. Porter, who once clashed with Crawford in the ring, voiced his concerns about the potential match-up.
I am concerned about him absorbing a Canelo punch, especially through the course of 12 rounds,” Porter confessed.
Porter’s Worries: A Power Gap?
In an exclusive interview with Fight Hub TV, Porter expressed significant apprehension about Crawford’s ability to handle Canelo’s power. “I am concerned about him absorbing a Canelo punch, especially through the course of 12 rounds,” Porter admitted. The disparity in weight and power between the two fighters is undeniable, and Porter fears that Canelo’s sheer strength could overwhelm Crawford.
However, Porter also offered an intriguing analysis. He suggested that while Canelo might start strong, his energy could wane as the fight progresses. “Canelo would start on the front foot and bang on Crawford, trying to break him down. But I believe Crawford could outlast him if the fight goes into the later rounds,” Porter speculated. Despite his doubts, Porter acknowledged the complexity of the match-up, noting the many facets that make Crawford a formidable opponent.
“and bang on [Crawford] and break him down” before the late rounds when he won’t have the energy while Crawford would.
Even so, Shawn Porter didn’t seem convinced that he had the answer to who would emerge victorious, claiming, “But there’s so many components that make a champion… It’s a conversation that lasts an hour easily when we talk about all the components that Terence Crawford has.”
Spence’s Unexpected Support
Interestingly, Errol Spence Jr., who chose not to activate his rematch clause with Crawford, has voiced support for the potential bout. Spence, who has been absent from the ring for over a year, expressed confidence in Crawford’s ability to take on Canelo. Speaking to talkSport, Spence said, “If Crawford wants to challenge himself to be great, let him try to be great. I’m with it. I’d be going for Bud.” Spence’s endorsement adds another layer of intrigue to the potential fight, highlighting the respect and admiration Crawford commands among his peers.
He said, “If Crawford wants to challenge himself to be great, let him try to be great. I’m with it.” As for who he thinks will win, Spence’s words exuded confidence in his former opponent. “I’d be going for Bud. I don’t know if he’d win or lose, but if anybody can pull it off, he can pull it off,” Spence added.
The Road Ahead: Madrimov First
Before Crawford can turn his attention to Canelo, he must first navigate his bout against Madrimov. The undefeated Uzbek fighter is no pushover and poses a significant challenge. Despite the excitement surrounding the Canelo fight, Crawford’s immediate focus must remain on his current opponent.
Editor’s Note:
The Crawford-Canelo speculation underscores the electrifying nature of boxing, where future bouts often overshadow current challenges. As Crawford aims to further his legacy, the anticipation surrounding a potential clash with Canelo adds a thrilling dimension to the sport. The coming months could very well shape the future of both fighters’ careers.
