Keyshawn Davis didn’t hesitate when asked for his thoughts on one of the most anticipated fights in recent boxing history. With Terence Crawford and Canelo Álvarez set to collide for the undisputed super middleweight title on September 13, opinions are pouring in from every corner of the sport. But Davis, a rising star and WBO lightweight champion, brought a perspective sharpened by both skill and insight.
While the official venue has yet to be confirmed, Las Vegas appears to be the frontrunner to host this blockbuster matchup. Canelo enters the bout after a tepid showing against William Scull in May, where he secured a unanimous decision but left many questioning his fire and form. That performance has only intensified the discussion about whether Crawford, undefeated and in peak form, could deliver a statement win—perhaps even a stoppage.
Davis, who has long admired Crawford’s craft, acknowledged that predicting a knockout is tricky—especially against a battle-tested veteran like Canelo. Yet he remains confident in Crawford’s overall ability to emerge victorious, no matter how it happens.
Davis sees stopping power in Crawford
Speaking with Sean Zittel, Davis was candid in his analysis of Crawford’s chances. He emphasized that Crawford’s mix of power, timing, and intelligence in the ring makes him a threat to any opponent.
“I think ‘Bud’ can stop anybody, honestly,“ Davis stated. “I think he got the skill, the ability. The ability, I mean the power and the speed and the IQ. I think he got the skill and ability to do it. But he’s still in there fighting a guy that’s trying not to let him do it.”
That last caveat—Canelo’s resilience and championship mindset—remains the X-factor. Davis didn’t downplay it, acknowledging that even the most talented fighters can hit a wall when matched with a tough, calculated opponent who refuses to fold.
A win alone would be greatness
Although Davis stopped short of forecasting a knockout, he made it clear that Crawford’s greatness doesn’t hinge on a finish. Whether the win comes via decision or stoppage, Davis sees it as a career-defining moment.
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“I feel like ‘Bud’ is going to beat him,” he said. “If and when he does stop him, ‘Bud’ is super great. Even him just getting the win, he’s super great. But, I can’t just be like, ‘He’s gonna stop Canelo.'”