Terence Crawford is fully embracing the significance of his upcoming clash against Canelo Alvarez this Saturday in Las Vegas. He describes it as the biggest boxing match in “probably a decade” as he aims to become the first male boxer to achieve undisputed status in three weight classes.
Crawford, set to face Alvarez for the super middleweight title, maintains his consistent preparation despite moving up two weight classes to take on the Mexican star in a fight that will be streamed live on Netflix.
“Same song, just a little higher tone,” he shared with Reuters in a Tuesday interview.
The 37-year-old American commended Alvarez’s experience but believes in his own skills to secure victory.
“Canelo is very experienced. I’m very experienced as well. Two experienced fighters going head-to-head. The best man will win,” he stated, highlighting that his footwork and speed could make the difference.
Crawford dismissed concerns about a potentially pro-Alvarez crowd at the 65,000-capacity Allegiant Stadium, home of the NFL’s Las Vegas Raiders.
The fight coincides with Mexican Independence Day weekend, and Las Vegas has a significant and growing Mexican community.
“I’ve been in hostile territory before. This is nothing new for me,” he said. “They can’t fight for him.”
Crawford (41-0, 31 KOs) believes defeating Alvarez (63-2-2, 39 KOs) would cap off a journey that began in the challenging neighborhoods of Omaha, Nebraska, and elevate him to a place in boxing history as the only male fighter to become undisputed champion in two weight classes.
“It would definitely be the highlight of my career, the biggest win of my career by far,” he remarked.
Crawford spoke with respect for the Mexican champion.
“I admire his entire career. He and his team have done a tremendous job,” he said, adding that after his victory, he will wish Alvarez “nothing but the best.”
While acknowledging Alvarez as his toughest challenge “on paper,” Crawford said the true test will be on fight night. He cited family, legacy, and history as his driving forces.
“It’s for my daughters, it’s about legacy, it’s about being the first male boxer to become undisputed in three weight classes. It’s all of it.”
Crawford shared that his fight week routine will include “media and chill” and predicted the outcome of the match: “Victory. A good victory.”
He added that he hopes the results will cement his place in the sport.
“They’re going to say that I’m the greatest of this generation and this era.”
