Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez (63-2-2, 39 KOs) and Terence ‘Bud’ Crawford (41-0, 31 KOs) star this weekend in what is arguably the most important fight of the year in the boxing world. ‘Once in a Lifetime’ is the official title given to the fight, and it has an explanation: there has never been a clash between undisputed champions in the four-belt era.
However, the fight takes place at super middleweight, where Canelo is the undisputed champion, something that forces him not to fail. Crawford, perhaps the most skillful fighter of his generation, moves up two divisions to face a seemingly indestructible opponent. Some are already calling it the fight of the decade. The venue is the impressive Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, which has a capacity of more than 65,000 spectators. The Mexican took a few minutes to talk to MARCA before the big battle.
QUESTION: You have already fought many important bouts throughout your career. Where do you place this fight against Crawford? Is this the one that could round off your legacy?
ANSWER: No, for me it’s another fight. I don’t think my whole legacy lies on just one fight.
Q: Are we talking about a 50/50 fight, or does your experience at super middleweight give you an advantage?
A: I always bet on myself. I go into the ring disciplined, focused and win, and for our team it is stick to the game plan – To Win.
I always bet on myself. I go into the ring disciplined, focused and win
Q: Do you think that Crawford knows what he is getting himself into, coming September 13th?
A: I hope so, this is the fight that he wanted. I am sure he did his homework, just like I have.
Q: Do you think Crawford will try to make you chase him around the ring, or will he dare to stand and trade?
A: I don’t think so. Crawford is not a runner in the ring, he has strategy and those are the fights I like.
Q: Are we going to see the best version of Canelo that we’ve ever seen so far?
A: The goal is to always be better than you were yesterday. I’m focused and determined, you will see on September 13th.
The goal is to always be better than you were yesterday. I’m focused and determined
Q: If you had to bet your money, would it be on a Canelo victory by decision or by KO?
A: It’s a Canelo victory no matter how it comes.
Q: Why has nobody ever managed to knock you down? What is your chin made of? Is it a gift, or is it hard work?
A: I train hard and work hard.
Q: Was it your decision for the fight to take place in a stadium? Why a stadium instead of an arena?
A: I want to thank Turki Alalshikh, Riyadh Season and Sela for making this happen. They were the pioneers to make this event to be executed at this level. I am happy this is happening during Mexican Independence weekend, so all Mexicans and Latinos are proud, and cheering.
I love boxing. No boxing, No Life.
Q: You’ve accomplished a lot in your career. What motivates you the most to keep taking on such demanding fights?
A: I love boxing. No boxing, No Life. I will continue until the day I feel it doesn’t feel right anymore.
Q: What is your next goal career wise with boxing?
A: Maybe Promotions.
Q: What does it mean to you to be an ambassador for 1Win?
A: I think it represents betting on yourself and I do it in the ring. People looking outside of the fight can have the opportunity to and the energy that I have inside the ring.
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