The boxing world is already buzzing ahead of the September clash between Canelo Alvarez and Terence Crawford, a showdown that will see one of the sport’s most decorated champions attempt to defy weight classes in pursuit of legacy. While the bout promises to be a historic event, it has also opened the door for bold predictions from those inside the ring—and few opinions carry as much weight as that of David Benavidez.
Fresh off a dominant win over William Scull in Riyadh, Canelo made headlines not just for his performance, but for the announcement that followed: a confirmed bout against Crawford. With all four super-middleweight titles on the line, the Mexican icon will try to fend off a challenge from a fighter jumping up from 154 pounds in a bid to become a four-division undisputed champion.
Benavidez, who has long sought a fight with Canelo himself, recently shared his take on Crawford’s chances. Speaking with Pound 4 Pound with Kamaru & Henry, the undefeated contender didn’t hesitate to offer an assessment rooted in respect, but tempered by realism.
Benavidez praises Crawford’s skills, but questions the weight gap
When asked directly if Terence Crawford could overcome the odds and beat Canelo, Benavidez responded with thoughtful consideration. “I think if anybody has an opportunity—I mean has a chance—to beat Canelo, I think it’s Terence Crawford,” he said. “His IQ is on another level, he’s a great fighter and he’s strong.”
Saul “Canelo” Alvarez fights William Scull on the Fatal Fury City of Wolves card at ANB Arena on May 03, 2025 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)
Despite the admiration, Benavidez underscored the challenges that come with stepping up to the 168-pound division. “It’s just that it’s a lot of weight, you know what I mean?” he noted. “He didn’t have a hard time at 154, but… the other guy was getting him with some good punches, so he felt the power. So imagine you go up to 168 and you’re fighting a strong fighter like Canelo.”
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His final take was measured: “I wouldn’t be surprised if Terence Crawford wins, but I wouldn’t be surprised if he loses either.”
Crawford’s most daunting test yet
Crawford, a generational talent who recently captured the WBA light-middleweight title by defeating Israil Madrimov, now faces a task that would challenge even the most dominant of fighters. The Omaha native has previously excelled at lightweight, super lightweight, and welterweight, but the leap to super middleweight comes with risk—and high reward.
If successful, Crawford would etch his name in history as the first male boxer to become undisputed in three different divisions and a world champion across five weight classes. At 37, he’s entering the twilight of his career, but the ambition and self-belief that have fueled his rise remain intact.
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For now, fans and fighters alike will continue speculating until the bell rings. But if Benavidez’s words are any indication, September’s mega-fight is destined to be more than just a title defense—it’s shaping up to be a defining moment for both men.
