The highly anticipated fight between Terence Crawford and Canelo Alvarez has captured the attention of boxing fans worldwide. However, not everyone in the boxing community believes Crawford is fully prepared for the challenge ahead. Prominent promoter Eddie Hearn has issued a strong warning to Crawford, emphasizing the risks involved in facing the Mexican superstar.
Hearn questioned Crawford’s readiness for an opponent of Canelo’s caliber, pointing to the significant jump in weight class and the vast experience Alvarez brings. While Crawford is an elite fighter with a sterling record, Hearn believes underestimating Canelo’s power and ring intelligence could prove costly.
In addition to the physical challenge, Hearn also raised concerns about Crawford’s resume, suggesting that the quality of opponents he has faced does not match the level of competition Canelo has consistently overcome throughout his career.
Is Crawford ready for Canelo?
Crawford is widely regarded as one of the best pound-for-pound boxers today, especially after his commanding victory over Errol Spence Jr. However, Eddie Hearn cautions that moving up to face Canelo Alvarez, who has fought at super middleweight and light heavyweight with great success, is a daunting task.
(L-R) Canelo Álvarez, Dana White, CEO, UFC and Terence Crawford are seen onstage during the Canelo Alvarez vs. Terence Crawford Las Vegas Press Conference at T-Mobile Arena on June 27, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by David Becker/Getty Images for Netflix)
“Crawford is an incredible fighter, but he has never faced anyone like Canelo,” Hearn said. “You can’t just move up in weight and expect your natural talent to be enough. Canelo is a monster at 168 pounds.”
see also
Manny Pacquiao’s firm response to Canelo Alvarez’s comparison of Terence Crawford to Floyd Mayweather Jr.
This jump in weight class could present significant challenges for Crawford, who has excelled at lighter divisions but will now face a physically larger and more experienced adversary.
Critique of Crawford’s career path
Hearn also questioned the strength of Crawford’s opposition in his professional career compared to Alvarez’s extensive list of elite opponents. While Crawford boasts victories over notable fighters, Hearn highlighted that Canelo’s record includes battles against some of boxing’s biggest names.
“When you look at Crawford’s resume, there are big names, but it doesn’t compare to Canelo’s. This guy has fought Gennady Golovkin, Dmitry Bivol, Caleb Plant, Billy Joe Saunders… and has come through in most of those wars,” Hearn remarked.
Physical and tactical challenges
Beyond the resume, Hearn pointed to the stark physical differences between the fighters and the tactical complexity Canelo brings to the ring. While Crawford is technically brilliant, the physicality and power of Alvarez at 168 pounds could prove a significant obstacle.
“Crawford would have to move up to 168 pounds for this fight. That’s a huge jump,” Hearn said. “And while he’s technically brilliant, the physical difference could be telling.”
Canelo is not just a power puncher; he is also a highly strategic fighter with an underrated defensive skill set. This combination of attributes makes him a formidable challenge for anyone, even an elite fighter like Crawford.
Legacy at Stake
Despite the warnings, the fight between Crawford and Canelo promises to be an event of historic proportions. Both men hold undisputed titles in their respective divisions and are considered among the best in the sport.
SurveyDo you think Terence Crawford is making the right decision by facing Canelo Alvarez at 168 lbs?
Do you think Terence Crawford is making the right decision by facing Canelo Alvarez at 168 lbs?
already voted 0 people
Eddie Hearn summarized the stakes by noting, “If Crawford goes into this fight, it will be for legacy, not logic.”
