Canelo Alvarez vs Terence Crawford: Former World Champion sees only one winner

When Canelo Alvarez and Terence Crawford step into the ring on September 13, boxing fans will witness a true clash of titans. With the undisputed super middleweight title at stake, the bout has already stirred widespread debate throughout the boxing world. Despite both men’s elite credentials, former world champion George Groves has made no secret about which way he sees the fight going.

Groves, who previously held the WBA super middleweight belt and shared the ring with the likes of Carl Froch, believes the physical gap between the fighters will be too much for Crawford to overcome.

Speaking to Action Network, Groves stated bluntly: “I can’t see how Canelo can’t win. He’s had a lot of fights now but there doesn’t seem to be too many miles on the clock.”

Groves emphasized that although Canelo isn’t the biggest super middleweight on paper, he has settled into the division comfortably over time. In contrast, Crawford will be jumping up two full weight classes from 154 lbs, with no prior experience at 168 lbs.

Mexican champion Canelo Alvarez will face Terence Crawford in a bout confirmed for September 2025. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)

“A step too far” for Crawford?

Crawford, widely respected for his boxing IQ and technical mastery, remains unbeaten with 31 knockouts in 41 career victories. However, Groves cast doubt on whether his skills will translate effectively against a naturally larger opponent like Alvarez. “He’s an amazing fighter—clever, balanced, has every shot in the book. But I can’t see him putting any physical dent in Canelo. I think it’s a step too far.”

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The British boxer went so far as to call it an 80/20 fight in favor of Canelo—a far cry from the 50/50 split some analysts have suggested. Groves pointed out that Crawford’s strength and power at lower weights may not carry over in this context.

Generational talents, but one clear favorite

Both fighters boast historic résumés—Canelo Alvarez is a two-time undisputed champion and long-time resident of the super middleweight division, while Terence Crawford is a four-division titleholder who unified the welterweight belts in dominant fashion. Still, the challenge of size and physicality looms large.

With just months to go before fight night, fans remain divided. But if George Groves is right, Canelo’s experience and size could prove decisive in a bout that is anything but ordinary.