LOS ANGELES – Terence Crawford is gearing up for a monumental fight that could reshape the landscape of boxing. Scheduled for September 2025, Crawford will face off against the Mexican superstar Canelo Alvarez in a highly anticipated showdown that promises to be a test of skills, strategy, and endurance.
Crawford, who has an undefeated record of 41-0 with 31 knockouts, has signified his intent to not only beat Alvarez but also to make history by jumping up two weight classes—moving from 154 pounds to fight at super middleweight (168 lbs). This approach allows him a chance to become an undisputed champion in a fourth weight class, having already held undisputed titles at 140 and 147 pounds, alongside a championship title at the 135-pound level.
As a two-division champion ready to compete against another formidable opponent, Crawford is keenly aware of the significance of this fight. In an extensive interview with The Ring, he expressed high hopes for his upcoming battle while firmly emphasizing the importance of legacy. "To become a four-weight undisputed champion is crazy. We have to weigh it out and just see what happens after this fight [against Alvarez]," he said.
Recent developments have made Crawford’s path more nuanced. On March 21, 2025, WBO president Gustavo Olivieri confirmed that Crawford would relinquish his interim WBO title upon the official announcement of the Alvarez fight. This decision means that his status as a mandatory challenger in the 154-pound division is now moot, effectively removing him from that weight class altogether. Olivieri also indicated that the current number one contender at 154 pounds, Xander Zayas, would be recommended as the mandatory challenger for the WBO title.
Crawford seems unperturbed by the relinquishment of his title. He noted, "If the opportunity presents itself, and it's a great opportunity for me and my career, then we will do what we have to do to make that fight with the winner" of other contenders like Sebastian Fundora, Bakhram Murtazaliev, or Vergil Ortiz Jr. Crawford has acknowledged that while these potential matchups may not be legacy-defining, he’s willing to face them once he proves himself against Alvarez.
After securing the WBA junior middleweight title in August 2024 against Israil Madrimov, Crawford appears poised for greatness. However, the decision to move up will test not just his skills but also his physical resilience. Some boxing analysts express concern that the leap from junior middleweight to super middleweight may be too grand, especially given Alvarez’s reputation as a powerful force in boxing.
To ease his transition, Crawford has been reportedly training diligently, working on refining his strategy. He even posted a video on social media where he stated, "I hear 'em talking, just know that. Feels good to be back in the gym.” This enthusiasm signifies his readiness to tackle the challenge that the Alvarez fight presents.
Canelo, known for his dominant performances in the super middleweight division, is also preparing for his own challenges. Before facing Crawford, he has a scheduled bout with William Scull on May 2, 2025, in Saudi Arabia. This fight will play a crucial role in determining whether Alvarez retains his edge going into the escalating match with Crawford.
Alvarez is well-established in the 168-pound class, having achieved remarkable victories over prominent fighters in the division. Many in the boxing community believe this established comfort gives him a significant advantage. As Sebastian Fundora commented, “Canelo’s more comfortable at 168 lbs.” However, Crawford believes he has the talent to disrupt expectations. In discussing his strategy for the fight, he mentioned the importance of adapting and learning from past battles. "We don’t know if Terence Crawford can take his punching power. We don’t know if Canelo can box toe to toe with me," he stated candidly.
While doubts circulate regarding Crawford’s decision to ascend in weight, respected boxing voices, like trainer Ronnie Shields, argue that it is all about skill rather than size. Shields has cited Floyd Mayweather's famous tactics against Alvarez in 2013 as a reference point for how Crawford might outmaneuver his larger opponent.
The Campbell situation will also be under intense scrutiny as both fighters inch closer to their prep camps. Crawford’s active decision-making led him to fight once a year since 2020, showing a keen understanding of pacing and strategy that could benefit him against Alvarez. Each fight has added to his tally of victories, enhancing his already prominent legacy.
Ultimately, as September approaches, the boxing world gears up for what could be a career-defining moment for Terence Crawford. The implications of a victory against Alvarez could solidify his standing as one of the greatest boxers history has ever seen, joining the ranks with legends of the sport. However, until the final bell rings, all eyes will remain on how this ambitious leap in classes bears out in the ring.
