LAS VEGAS -- Allegiant Stadium is set to make its boxing debut as Saúl "Canelo" Álvarez will defend his undisputed super middleweight titles against the undefeated Terence "Bud" Crawford on September 12 in what promises to be one of the biggest boxing matches in recent history.
A Historic Matchup
This event marks the first boxing match ever hosted at Allegiant Stadium, the home of the NFL's Las Vegas Raiders. The venue has recently hosted the Super Bowl and WrestleMania and will host the College Football Playoff National Championship and the Final Four.
Canelo Álvarez's record stands at 63 wins, 2 losses, and 2 draws, with 39 KOs. The 34-year-old from Guadalajara, Mexico, holds the WBA (Super), WBC, IBF, WBO, and The Ring super middleweight titles. He reclaimed his status as the undisputed super middleweight champion after a unanimous decision victory over William Scull on May 3, 2025, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Despite the win, the bout was criticized for its lack of action, with both fighters combining for a record-low 445 punches thrown in a 12-round fight according to CompuBox.
Terence "Bud" Crawford, 37, boasts an impressive record of 41 wins and 0 losses, with 31 KOs. He hails from Omaha, Nebraska, and is a former undisputed champion at light welterweight and welterweight. Crawford's last fight was in August 2024, where he secured a unanimous decision victory over Israil Madrimov, capturing the WBA super welterweight title. This upcoming bout will see him moving up two weight classes to challenge Álvarez at 168 pounds, a division he has never competed in before.
Stakes and Expectations
The fight carries historical significance, as Crawford aims to become the first male boxer to achieve undisputed champion status in three different weight classes during the four-belt era. Both fighters have expressed mutual respect and enthusiasm for the matchup. Álvarez stated, "Crawford is one of the best out there, and I like to share the ring with that kind of fighter." Crawford responded, "I'm feeling great, blessed, I'll show the world what greatness looks like in September." Promoted by UFC President Dana White, this bout is anticipated to be a major draw in the boxing world, combining the star power of two of the sport's most accomplished fighters in a historic venue.
After Alvarez's unanimous decision win over William Scull, the next move for the Mexican star was clear. Moments after the scores were read, the matchup with Crawford was officially announced. The two fighters had their first staredown, with Crawford, who won his first world title at 135lbs, holding a slight height advantage over Álvarez, who won his first world title at 154lbs during their staredown.
Crawford, who last fought in August 2024, is prepared for the challenge. "I'm very hungry," he said. "I wanted this fight because this is going to solidify myself in the greatness status." He added, "Take big chances, big opportunities ... that's what I'm all about."
Alvarez's recent fights have drawn criticism for their lack of excitement. His victory over Scull was characterized by a low punch output, with Alvarez throwing just 152 punches, the second-fewest in a 12-round fight in CompuBox's 40-year history. Critics have pointed out that Alvarez's opponents have often seemed more focused on survival than on winning, leading to bouts that lack drama.
Despite this, Alvarez remains one of the biggest draws in boxing. His recent decision win over Scull was a demonstration of his effectiveness, as he connected on 53.9 percent of his power punches to Scull's body, according to CompuBox. The final scores were 115-113, 116-112, and 119-109 in favor of Alvarez.
Looking Ahead
The upcoming bout against Crawford is seen as a critical moment for Álvarez. He has been criticized for taking on lesser opponents in recent years, with fans yearning for more competitive matchups. The fight with Crawford represents a significant challenge that could reignite excitement in Álvarez's career. "I hope September ... is another kind of fight," Álvarez said, expressing his desire for a more engaging contest.
As the two fighters prepare to face off, the boxing world is abuzz with anticipation. Crawford's move up to super middleweight is a bold step, and many are curious to see how he will perform against a fighter of Álvarez's caliber. With both fighters boasting impressive records and accolades, this matchup promises to be a thrilling encounter that could redefine their legacies.
In conclusion, the September 12 showdown at Allegiant Stadium is more than just a fight; it's a historic event that could change the landscape of boxing. With both fighters eager to prove themselves, fans can expect an electrifying atmosphere as two of the sport's best prepare to clash. Will Crawford's ambition and skill be enough to overcome Álvarez's experience and power? Only time will tell as the countdown to this monumental bout begins.
