The boxing world is buzzing with anticipation as Terence Crawford, one of the sport’s most skilled fighters, plans to move up to 168 pounds to challenge undisputed champion Canelo Alvarez in Las Vegas this September.
This potential clash of titans has generated enormous excitement, especially after Dmitry Bivol, who handed Canelo a memorable defeat in 2022, shared valuable insights on how Crawford could replicate his success.
With Canelo on a five-fight winning streak and cementing his dominance following his foray into the 175-pound division, Crawford faces a monumental challenge. However, Bivol, the current undisputed king of light heavyweights, believes Crawford’s mental strength and adaptability could be decisive in this historic fight.
Bivol’s strategy for Crawford
Bivol, speaking on The Ring Podcast, emphasized the importance of adaptation and mental preparation for Crawford. “He needs to get used to the power and pressure of 168 because it’s [different], a big difference, to be honest,” Bivol explained. “Maybe he will get used to it. And how he will be feeling himself the same day he is fighting, how his training camp will go on. But he is able, he has good skills, he is awkward, and he can use two boxing stances. It gives him benefits, of course.”
Bivol also highlighted the critical role of mental preparation. “It’s not only about getting used to the power, it’s also about being mentally ready. When people are not prepared mentally, they become afraid or scared, and your body becomes weak. When something new happens and you weren’t ready for it—we all know this feeling—the body melts, it becomes soft. Mentality is very important for this fight.”
Canelo’s inconsistency and Crawford’s opportunity
Bivol pointed out Canelo’s inconsistent performances against different opponents, suggesting that mentality plays a significant role. “At the same time, we saw how Canelo was fighting against other guys like [Jermell] Charlo, maybe Callum Smith, and we saw the huge difference,” Bivol said. “I think it’s not because of weight class, it’s about the mentality of the opponents.”
Crawford’s confidence and adaptability
Terence Crawford, a former undisputed champion in the 147-pound division and a titleholder in four weight classes, is no stranger to challenges. Despite being considered the underdog, Crawford is confident in his ability to adapt and overcome.
“Man, we’re going to see come fight time what my advantage is,” Crawford said. “I’m the type of guy who likes to feel my opponents out and adjust to what they’re doing. I think that’s my greatest attribute—to be able to figure out every opponent I’ve faced thus far. I’m looking to do the same come fight time when the Canelo fight happens.”
Crawford also addressed concerns about his size and ability to compete at 168 pounds. “People say, ‘You’re too small’ or ‘You’re outmatched’ or ‘You don’t belong in the ring with these types of fighters.’ But I’ve been proving people wrong my whole career.”