Canelo vs Crawford: Boxing legend Oscar De La Hoya sees one fighter on the brink of greatness

Anticipation is building in the boxing world with the confirmation of a monumental showdown between two of its biggest stars: Canelo Alvarez and Terence Crawford. Boxing legend Oscar De La Hoya has shared his perspective on this highly anticipated bout, scheduled for September, where Canelo will defend his unified super middleweight titles (WBC, WBA, and WBO), and potentially the IBF if he defeats William Scull in May.

The significance of this clash lies in Crawford’s ambition to make history by attempting to become a world champion in five different weight classes—an achievement that would elevate him to the elite ranks of boxing.

However, the challenge for Crawford is immense. The American fighter will have to move up two weight classes to face Canelo, a boxer known for his power and experience in the super middleweight division.

In an interview with Brian Mazique, De La Hoya acknowledged the magnitude of what Crawford could accomplish. “If Crawford can do it, Jesus Lord, I mean give this man the title of being the greatest ever … but I just don’t see it. Canelo is a big puncher. Yeah, he walks on quicksand and that’s one thing Crawford can use against him, but the pressure of the heavier guy… Canelo will be 200 pounds in that ring. It’s a tough fight, but look, I give all the credit to Crawford. If he pulls it off, he’ll be the messiah of fighters.”

Terence Crawford celebrates his ninth-round TKO victory over Jeff Horn in their WBO welterweight title fight at MGM Grand Garden Arena on June 9, 2018 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Steve Marcus/Getty Images)

Crawford seeks maximum glory

The possibility of Crawford defeating Canelo Alvarez represents an unprecedented milestone in boxing history. Moving up two weight classes and defeating a unified champion like Canelo would not only showcase Crawford’s skill and versatility but also put him in a league of his own. De La Hoya’s statement about Crawford becoming the “messiah of fighters” if he succeeds underscores the enormity of this challenge.

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Canelo’s legacy: Searching for the undisputed double crown

Canelo Alvarez’s upcoming matchup against William Scull is more than just a warm-up for the Crawford fight. It represents an opportunity for Canelo to solidify his legacy and make boxing history. The chance to become the first boxer to win the undisputed super middleweight championship at 168 pounds twice would place him in an elite class.

A win against Scull would not only boost Canelo’s confidence but also allow him to enter the showdown with Crawford at his best. The anticipated fight between Canelo and Crawford promises to be historic, and De La Hoya’s perspective adds an extra layer of intrigue to this epic clash. Whether Crawford reaches peak greatness or Canelo cements his undisputed legacy, boxing fans will be eagerly awaiting the September bout.