The anticipation for the clash between Canelo Alvarez and Terence Crawford on September 13 is huge. However, as the date approaches, expert voices and boxing analysts are beginning to point out a crucial element that some believe could tip the scales in favor of the Mexican: Crawford’s prolonged inactivity and his risky two-weight class climb for this momentous fight.
While Terence Crawford is widely recognized for his skill and experience, his path to this historic showdown has been marked by long periods of inactivity in the ring. This factor, combined with the challenge of moving up to a weight class in which he has never competed professionally, raises questions about his adaptability and endurance against a boxer as solid and active as Canelo.
Disadvantages for Crawford?
Trainer Manny Robles, while praising Crawford’s skills, has expressed concern about his inactivity. Speaking to Fino Boxing, he said that “for me, he’s one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the world. I understand that activity does matter. So that could come back and affect Crawford, but he’s a very skilled fighter. On the other hand, Canelo has stayed active and he’s a full-fledged fighter. He’s a super middleweight.”
Critics also point out that Crawford has “jumped the line” to get this fight, bypassing elite contenders such as Christian Mbilli, David Benavidez, David Morrell or Osleys Iglesias, which calls into question the strength of his recent resume in the context of a “pound-for-pound” status. It is argued that age, inactivity, a weaker track record against top-tier opponents in higher categories and a controversial performance in his last fight are factors that cannot be ignored and will play a crucial role against Canelo.
An extra motivation
Despite concerns about inactivity, Manny Robles remains steadfast in his admiration for Crawford, highlighting him as one of the best pound-for-pound boxers. “He’s too elusive, too accurate, too skillful and too smart,” Robles said, adding that Crawford is a “complete fighter” capable of switching stances. He even went so far as to call the fight a “50-50” in terms of pure skill. However, this view contrasts with the general concern that a boxer’s activity is critical and could negatively affect Crawford.
Doubts about Crawford’s ability to fight are well established, but at the same time it can be an extra motivation for a boxer who is confident and knows what he is capable of. Time is ticking and all doubts will be resolved when the two step into the ring.
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