Last weekend, veteran ESPN boxing commentator Teddy Atlas went to great lengths to explain why Terence ‘Bud’ Crawford has the potential to take down boxing’s current king, Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez. In a passionate argument, Atlas stated his case in favor of Crawford’s prowess, maintaining that the American’s skillset could overcome any worldwide fighter.
“Just because Canelo is the cash cow in boxing now, doesn’t mean he’s unbeatable. Crawford has it in him to script an upset,” said Atlas while discussing the hypothetical matchup between these elite boxers. Having witnessed both fighters’ ascent in their respective fields, Atlas stands firm on his stance that Crawford can beat Canelo Alvarez and anyone who dares to stand in his way.
While Canelo’s dominance in the game is undisputed, having impressive wins against Billy Joe Saunders, Avni Yildirim, and Callum Smith, Atlas argues there’s more to boxing than just big-name victories. Crawford, being a three-weight World Champion exponentially winning his last eight fights by stoppage, certainly provides a formidable challenge for Alvarez.
Atlas intelligently interprets the fighting styles of both fighters and how they would interact in the ring. “Crawford’s switch-hitting style can be a game-changer. His ability to comfortably transition between the orthodox and southpaw stance is something not many fighters can handle. Even someone as seasoned as Canelo,” said Atlas.
Atlas emphasized the importance of ring intelligence and tactical fluidity in a battle against someone as lethal as Canelo, and that are areas where Crawford excels. His ring craft has been nothing short of extraordinary, showing adaptability and creativity in his bouts that have left even the toughest opponents bamboozled.
In terms of defensive abilities, Canelo is known to be an ironclad force. However, Atlas believes that Crawford’s accuracy in punches might just be the key to dismantle his defense. “Crawford is a precision puncher, he hits you where it hurts. He has got the ability to find gaps where there appear to be none,” elaborated Atlas.
Crawford’s undefeated record speaks for itself, illustrating the fact that he has always found a way to conquer regardless of the adversity presented. It is this relentless spirit and unyielding determination that makes Atlas, and indeed many others, believe that Crawford could be the man to beat Canelo.
Atlas also argued that the age factor could play a role. At 33, Crawford is at his prime and packs a strong punch, while Canelo, albeit phenomenal, is at an age (30) where physical prime typically starts to decline.
While Atlas’s passionate argument for Crawford homes in on the technical aspects of the boxing ring, he also calls attention to a larger, crucial element: the will to win. He mentions that Crawford’s journey, from his tough start in Omaha to top of the sport, has instilled in him an indomitable will that can be a critical difference-maker in a fight against an athlete like Canelo.
Points of contention or not, Atlas’s views underscore what an intriguing spectacle a clash between Canelo and Crawford could be. Both fighters are exceptional in their own rights, with a deadly cocktail of power, precision, and deftness. Whether Atlas’s predictions will hold water remains to be seen. But one thing is clear – in a world constantly seeking out super fights, this potential bout between Crawford and Canelo is an electrifying prospect.
