The announcement came moments after Canelo’s most recent victory, a dominant performance over William Scull that earned him the IBF title and made him the only boxer in history to unify the super-middleweight division twice. The win served as the perfect launchpad for the long-awaited showdown against Crawford, now officially set for September 13 at a yet-to-be-named venue in the United States.

Among the chorus of voices weighing in on the fight, one stands out with the authority of experience: James Toney. A former world champion in three divisions, Toney is remembered for his bold leap to heavyweight, where he shocked the world by stopping Evander Holyfield. Now, he’s placing his faith in Crawford—and he’s not holding back.

Toney believes skills will trump size

In an interview with ESNEWS, Toney made his position clear, dismissing concerns about the size gap between the two fighters. “I got [Terence] Crawford, all about skills. They all said that [size difference] when I fought [Evander] Holyfield, they all said that,” he recalled.

Crawford eyes historic third undisputed crown

Already a two-division undisputed champion, Crawford now looks to add an unprecedented third to his résumé. The 37-year-old made his 154-pound debut last August against Israil Madrimov, securing the WBA title despite a performance that many deemed below his usual standard.

If he can overcome Canelo, Crawford would not only etch his name deeper into the annals of boxing greatness but also redefine the limits of what’s possible across weight classes. For Toney and others who believe in Crawford’s talent, the challenge is real—but so is the opportunity.

Canelo remains the standard at 168

Canelo’s dominance at 168 lbs is no fluke. Since making his debut in the division with a demolition of Rocky Fielding in 2018, the Guadalajara native has taken on and defeated some of the best in the business.

Both fighters enter this bout chasing more than a win. For Crawford, it’s immortality. For Canelo, it’s validation. And for boxing, it’s a reminder of what makes the sport endure—the drama, the doubt, and the daring that legends are made of.

Mayweather, who retired in 2017 with an impressive 50-0 record, cemented his legacy by winning world titles in five weight divisions, from super featherweight to super welterweight, defeating iconic names such as Manny Pacquiao, Canelo Álvarez, Oscar De La Hoya, and Juan Manuel Márquez. However, Holyfield—himself a fighter of monumental achievements—questions the validity of one of Mayweather’s key victories.

With undisputed reigns at both cruiserweight and heavyweight, Holyfield remains the only four-time heavyweight champion in history. Throughout his storied career, he faced and defeated numerous boxing legends, including Mike Tyson, George Foreman, Larry Holmes, and Riddick Bowe.

Despite the mutual respect between him and Mayweather as two of the sport’s all-time greats, Holyfield has openly disagreed with the outcome of one of Mayweather’s most significant victories.

The Mayweather-Pacquiao controversy and Holyfield’s opinion

The highest-grossing fight of Mayweather’s career—a long-awaited showdown against Manny Pacquiao in May 2015—generated a record-breaking 4.6 million pay-per-view buys and $72 million at the gate.

Mayweather secured a unanimous decision victory, but when asked in an ESPN interview after the superfight whether he believed Pacquiao should have won, Holyfield responded bluntly: “I actually thought Pacquiao was doing well. I don’t know how people scored the fight, I thought he was doing well,” His statement, though controversial, reflects the widespread belief that the fight was closer than the official result suggested.

Holyfield’s legacy and his unique perspective on boxing

Evander Holyfield’s willingness to challenge Floyd Mayweather’s perfect record and assert his own greatness underscores his competitive mindset and deep understanding of the sport. As debates over Mayweather’s legacy and Holyfield’s place in boxing history continue, his perspective adds yet another layer to the ongoing conversation in the boxing world.

Lewis’ ascent in the professional ranks was nothing short of meteoric. After capturing regional titles, he became the mandatory challenger for the WBC heavyweight title, then held by Riddick Bowe. However, Bowe famously vacated the belt rather than face Lewis, allowing the Briton to claim the title and establish himself as a dominant force.

Nicknamed “The Lion,” Lewis successfully defended his title three times before a shocking loss to Oliver McCall in 1994. Displaying resilience, he reclaimed the belt in a rematch and continued his reign by defeating legendary opponents such as Evander Holyfield, Shannon Briggs, and David Tua. These victories cemented his place as one of the most dominant heavyweights in boxing history.

A surprising acknowledgment from Lewis

In 2023, Lewis surprised fans during a social media interaction when asked about the most underrated heavyweight of his era. The question posed was, “Who’s an underrated heavyweight from your era that you think would’ve done well in today’s era?” His response was unexpected: “Mercer.”

Lewis faced Mercer in 1996 in a closely contested bout that ended in a majority decision victory for the Briton. Despite the loss, Mercer’s performance in the fight remains one of his career highlights, showcasing his tenacity and skill.

Ray Mercer: An overlooked contender

Like Lewis, Mercer also shone at the 1988 Seoul Olympics, where he secured a gold medal in the heavyweight division. He went on to claim the WBO world title in 1991 by defeating Francesco Damiani and successfully defended it against Tommy Morrison. Mercer’s accomplishments, though often overshadowed, reflect the depth of talent in the heavyweight division during that era.

A golden generation

Lewis’ acknowledgment of Mercer is a testament to the respect shared among great fighters of the golden generation in boxing. This era was defined by fierce rivalries, epic bouts, and enduring legacies. As one of the sport’s most celebrated champions, Lennox Lewis’ recognition of his peers underscores the mutual respect that defines boxing at its highest level.

Their parallel paths have sparked frequent comparisons, with fans and analysts debating the greatness of these two champions. In a recent interview with FightHub TV, Holyfield, who faced iconic opponents such as Mike Tyson and George Foreman, shared valuable advice for Usyk, who, at 37, stands at the pinnacle of professional boxing.

“Well, he’s the undisputed champ, right? If he feels that he’s satisfied, then he can step down. But if he’s not satisfied and feels he needs to make some more money, he has the decision to make. He can retire and say, ‘This is my money, I’m done,’ or he can give somebody else that chance to beat him,” Holyfield commented.

Holyfield’s message to Usyk: Wisdom from a legend

Reflecting on his own illustrious career, which included 44 wins and 10 losses, Holyfield offered a poignant lesson: “I didn’t retire ’cause I did what my momma said. My momma said you don’t quit on a loss. But you don’t want to go so far that all of a sudden you can beat some people, but you can’t beat that younger guy no more. It will catch up with you.”

Holyfield’s words underscore the delicate balance between ambition and prudence in a boxer’s career. While the drive to conquer new challenges is a hallmark of champions, the physical and mental toll of professional boxing can eventually diminish performance.

Usyk’s future in boxing

Oleksandr Usyk has shown no signs of slowing down. The Ukrainian champion has expressed his intention to continue competing and seeking new challenges, with his sights set on unifying the heavyweight titles once again. Usyk is eyeing a potential clash with the winner of the upcoming fight between Daniel Dubois and Joseph Parker.

Although Usyk’s future remains uncertain, his legacy as one of the greatest boxers of his era is already cemented. Holyfield’s advice, however, serves as a powerful reminder: longevity in boxing is not just about skill but also about knowing when to step away.

Legendary boxer Evander Holyfield recently shared his thoughts on the hypothetical matchup in an interview with Fight Hub TV. According to the former champion, Tyson Fury would have triumphed in a fight against Joshua.

“That would be a good fight. Both guys fight pretty much the same, but I think Tyson, Tyson Fury, he’s the type of guy who can make an adjustment and outthink him,” Holyfield said.

Joshua vs. Fury: A battle that captivated the world

The potential showdown between Joshua and Fury was one of the most eagerly awaited events in recent boxing history. Both men, world champions at different points in their careers, represented the peak of British boxing.

Their rivalry had been building for years, with fans eagerly awaiting what seemed like an inevitable clash. However, both fighters suffered setbacks, with Joshua losing to Oleksandr Usyk and Fury facing Daniel Dubois, pushing the fight further out of reach.

Fury and Joshua’s uncertain futures in boxing

Fury’s retirement announcement has created uncertainty around the future of British boxing. Still, many fans remain hopeful that the “Gypsy King” will return to fulfill his promise of facing Joshua in the ring.

Whether or not the bout ever materializes, the rivalry between Fury and Joshua has left an indelible mark on the sport. Both boxers have cemented their legacies and delivered unforgettable moments for boxing fans worldwide.

“I’m the only four-time heavyweight champion of the world, but they’re still talking about Ali when I broke his record,” Holyfield stated. “I’ve held that record for 24 years, and yet no one talks about it. How do you erase someone from history?”

Evander Holyfield further highlighted his groundbreaking achievements, including being the first boxer to become undisputed champion in two weight divisions—something he claims wasn’t widely acknowledged until Oleksandr Usyk replicated the feat. “They don’t say anything about me. I didn’t even know I was the first to do it until Usyk did,” he added.

Holyfield vs. Ali: A debate about greatness

Holyfield argues that his unprecedented dominance in the heavyweight division, with four separate reigns as champion, solidifies his claim to being the best. “They keep saying Ali is the best fighter. No, I am. He was champion three times—I’ve been champion four,” Holyfield said emphatically.

While Muhammad Ali remains a cultural and sporting icon, renowned for his charisma, dominance, and impact on society, Holyfield’s accolades are hard to ignore. His adaptability, resilience, and ability to thrive against top-tier competition make him a formidable contender in any discussion about boxing greatness.

An endless debate in boxing

The debate over the greatest boxer of all time is as old as the sport itself. Both Ali and Holyfield excelled in different eras, faced unique challenges, and brought their own styles to the ring.

Ultimately, the question of greatness is subjective, shaped by personal preferences and historical context. What remains undeniable is the lasting legacy of both men and their contributions to the rich history of boxing.

Fury, who aspired to become the first undisputed heavyweight champion in 25 years, faced two consecutive losses to Oleksandr Usyk. The first, in 2022, came by decision after a pivotal ninth-round blow shifted the momentum. In the rematch, Usyk’s dominance was undeniable, as he claimed victory via unanimous decision with a display of precise and aggressive boxing.

Many speculate that Fury’s retirement announcement could be a negotiating tactic to prompt more lucrative offers, particularly for a potential mega-fight against Anthony Joshua. The rivalry between Fury and Joshua has captivated boxing fans for years but remains unrealized.

However, Fury’s words on Monday suggest he may be serious about stepping away. In a video posted on Instagram, the “Gypsy King” declared: “Hi everybody. I’m going to make this short and sweet. I’d like to announce my retirement from boxing. It’s been a blast, I’ve loved every single minute of it, and I’m going to end with this: Dick Turpin wore a mask. God bless everybody, see you on the other side. Get up.”

Holyfield’s message to Fury

Evander Holyfield, another legendary heavyweight champion, acknowledged Fury’s announcement with a message of support. Holyfield, who himself retired after a storied career, shared his thoughts on Instagram: “Good luck champ. Enjoy your retirement.”

Fury’s indelible legacy in boxing

If Fury’s retirement is indeed final, he leaves an enduring mark on boxing history. Known for his flamboyant style, magnetic personality, and remarkable skill in the ring, the “Gypsy King” captivated audiences worldwide.

While the long-anticipated fight with Anthony Joshua never materialized, Fury’s career will be remembered for his dominance in the heavyweight division and his ability to entertain both inside and outside the ring. Whether his retirement stands or serves as a prelude to new challenges, Fury’s legacy as one of boxing’s greats is unquestionable.

Evander Holyfield, famously known as “The Real Deal,” has witnessed the evolution of heavyweight boxing firsthand. Drawing from his extensive experience, Holyfield has offered valuable insights into the great fighters of his generation and emerging talents. In a recent interview with Mail Sport Boxing, the former champion expressed his belief that Mike Tyson, at his peak, would have dominated Deontay Wilder.

“Folks, half of you don’t know your history. When it comes to the sport of boxing, let’s face it—you do not know your history. We love Mike Tyson, of course… We love them all. They did a great job. But go back and look up your facts,” Holyfield said. “If you go back, I want somebody to answer this question: How many Hall of Fame fighters did Mike Tyson actually fight?”

“Thank you. Only two. Holyfield beat him twice, and Lennox beat him. Only two. So, what are you all talking about? Now you go back and look up your history! Everybody else was scared. They weren’t any Hall of Famers!” he added.

Holyfield’s remarks have reignited the timeless debate about who would prevail in a hypothetical showdown between these two titans. Tyson, renowned for his speed, agility, and devastating knockout power, was an unstoppable force in his prime. Deontay Wilder, on the other hand, boasts exceptional reach and a right hand that few can rival.

The Experience and Style Factor

Holyfield contends that Tyson’s experience and technical skill would be decisive factors in a matchup against Wilder. While Wilder’s raw power is undeniably impressive, Holyfield believes Tyson’s intelligence and versatility in the ring would give him the edge.

The contrasting fighting styles of Tyson and Wilder add further intrigue to this debate. Tyson was a relentless aggressor, constantly pressuring his opponents and seeking to finish fights with powerful combinations. In contrast, Wilder often keeps his distance, relying on his reach and looking for the perfect moment to land his signature knockout punch. This clash of styles could result in an explosive fight but might also favor one fighter over the other.

Tyson vs. Wilder: An Open Debate

Ultimately, the question of who would win in a match between Tyson and Wilder is one that may never have a definitive answer. Boxing is a sport filled with variables, and while fans will never see these two heavyweights face off in the ring, their legacies remain intertwined with the greatness and excitement that define the sport.

Foreman, after an extended retirement, returned to the ring with renewed strength, proving that age had not diminished his legendary power. Mike Tyson, meanwhile, dominated the heavyweight division in the 1980s with his aggressive style and explosive youthful energy.

In a revealing interview with Fighthype, Holyfield shared his perspective on the punching power of both fighters: “George Foreman. A lot harder, a lot bigger too though,” he said. Coming from a man who experienced the brute force of both legends firsthand, this statement adds a fascinating new layer to the ongoing debate over who possessed the most devastating punch.

The Power of a Jackhammer vs. the Fury of a Hurricane

Foreman, renowned for his raw power and straight punches, fought like a jackhammer, delivering relentless, crushing blows. His imposing size and reach made him a constant threat in the ring. Tyson, on the other hand, was a whirlwind of punches, combining explosive speed and surprising agility for his size. His style relied on quick combinations that overwhelmed opponents.

Holyfield, known for his exceptional movement and stamina, managed to neutralize the attacks of both fighters during their bouts. However, it was Foreman’s brute force that left the biggest impression.

An Open Debate

It’s important to remember that boxing is a highly subjective sport, and perceptions of punching power can vary from boxer to boxer. The strength of a punch isn’t determined solely by raw power but also by factors such as accuracy, angle of impact, and a boxer’s ability to absorb punishment.

Ultimately, the question of who hit harder—Foreman or Tyson—remains a matter of personal opinion and will likely continue to be a topic of debate among boxing fans. What is undeniable, however, is that both were exceptional fighters whose clashes with Holyfield rank among the most memorable moments in boxing history.

This loss to Usyk has left Tyson Fury at a pivotal crossroads in his career. While the possibility of a trilogy with the Ukrainian is not yet off the table, Fury’s future could also include a long-awaited clash with Anthony Joshua. Though the hype surrounding this matchup has dimmed in recent years, it still holds significant appeal for boxing fans and could still prove to be a major draw.

With his victory over Fury, Oleksandr Usyk further cements his status as one of the best pound-for-pound boxers in the world. He joins a select group of fighters, including Evander Holyfield and Lennox Lewis, who have successfully unified the four major world titles in both the cruiserweight and heavyweight divisions.

What Was the Message Holyfield Sent to Fury After the Loss to Usyk?

“Tyson Fury, great job. Man, I know you’ll get back. Spend some time with your family, man,” Holyfield said on his YouTube channel. The former world champion’s message of support highlights the mutual respect between the two fighters, as well as the understanding of the inevitable ups and downs of a career in high-level boxing.

The Legacy of Champions

While the loss to Usyk is a setback, it does not define Fury’s career. His legacy as one of the most charismatic and entertaining boxers of his generation is already secured. Now, the “Gypsy King” will have to consider his next steps—whether that be a potential trilogy with Usyk, a showdown with Anthony Joshua, or perhaps even a well-deserved retirement.

On November 15, Mike Tyson returned to the ring to face Paul in a controversial fight that he lost by unanimous decision. The reactions and speculations quickly followed, placing possible future opponents in the spotlight, including Holyfield.

Despite their tense moments and sporting rivalry, Tyson and Evander Holyfield have shown that mutual respect and admiration can prevail. In recent years, both boxers have expressed appreciation for each other, leaving behind the disputes of the past.

The idea of a third fight between the two has been the subject of speculation for years, but both Tyson and Holyfield have ruled out this possibility. However, in a recent exchange on social media, the two boxers addressed the issue directly.

Is a Tyson vs. Holyfield Trilogy Possible?

Mike Tyson made things clear about a possible fight, responding to Holyfield’s suggestion. Tyson addressed a post from Holyfield, who floated the idea of a fight that fans might want, saying, “I love you, brother, but the trilogy is our friendship.”

In another post, Holyfield added: “But Mike’s right—the trilogy is our friendship and respect. The fans have spoken—no need for gloves to keep this friendship strong!”

Tyson vs. Holyfield: A Legacy That Transcends Boxing

The rivalry between Tyson and Holyfield left an indelible mark on the boxing world. Their clashes were unforgettable events, filled with drama, emotion, and controversy that defined an era of heavyweight boxing.