The highly anticipated showdown between Canelo Alvarez and Terence Crawford continues to spark debate in the boxing world, and renowned analyst Teddy Atlas has shared his perspective on this potential mega-fight.
While Canelo is scheduled for a unification bout in May against William Scull, reports suggest that a fight with Crawford, a four-division world champion, is already in the works for September in Las Vegas.
This matchup presents a monumental challenge for Crawford, who would need to move up two weight classes to attempt to become the first boxer to defeat Alvarez in the super middleweight division. As anticipation builds, experts and fans are analyzing the potential dynamics of the fight, considering the size difference and the unique skills of both fighters.
Atlas analyzes the size difference and Crawford’s recent performance
Appearing on The Ring Magazine podcast, Teddy Atlas began his analysis by addressing the size disparity between the fighters and Crawford’s performance in his last bout against Israil Madrimov in August 2023. “You can make arguments both sides. ‘Canelo’s too big, and Crawford, as good as he is, he stepped up with Madrimov and struggled a little bit,’” Atlas said.
However, Atlas also acknowledged Madrimov’s quality, noting that he was underestimated and that expectations for Crawford were excessively high.
“People are going to say he had trouble with a 154-pound guy when he went up from welterweight, and now he’s going up to 168. ‘Teddy, come on, how you going to make an argument?’” Atlas reflected, anticipating criticism about the weight difference.
Atlas highlights Crawford’s advantages
Despite concerns about the size gap, Atlas pointed out Crawford’s potential advantages in the fight. “You make an argument through this, the history of the sport where little guys have been able to beat big guys,” Atlas explained. “You reverse who’s got the advantage. Yeah, the size and power of Canelo, then all of a sudden you go back and you say, wait a minute, the other guy’s faster, the other guy’s craftier, the other guy has more options, is slicker. Maybe he’s got the advantages.”
Atlas’ bold prediction
Atlas praised Crawford’s unique abilities, emphasizing his instincts and “X-factors” that could prove decisive in the fight. “I’m one of the people that thinks Crawford is very, very special. I’m not saying Canelo’s not, but I think Crawford is special in a different way,” Atlas stated.
“He’s got instincts that not everyone has. The timing, the X-factor, the intangibles, and I think they’re gonna show themselves. And I can’t wait. I can’t wait to see a smaller guy use those X-factors to beat a bigger guy. I always wanted to see David and Goliath live, didn’t you? Well, get ready to watch it.” Atlas added.
The final verdict
Teddy Atlas’ prediction leans in favor of Terence Crawford, citing his ability to overcome size disadvantages with his speed, skill, and “X-factors.” Atlas anticipates an electrifying and historic fight, where the biblical tale of David and Goliath could play out in the boxing ring.
As the potential fight date approaches, anticipation continues to grow, with fans eagerly awaiting what could be one of the most memorable clashes in boxing history.