Tension was already high ahead of the big fight on September 14 atAllegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, but the World Boxing Organization (WBO) has just raised the stakes. In a move that could redefine the boxing landscape, the undefeated Terence Crawford has vacated his interim junior middleweight title (154 lbs) to position himself as the number one contender at super middleweight, where Canelo Álvarez reigns.
With this move, the WBO confirms that the fight between Canelo and Crawford will not be just a showcase – it will have direct implications for the world championship. The decision was revealed by the specialized outlet BoxingScene and later confirmed by the organization itself. Gustavo Oliveri, president of the WBO, made it clear that Crawford will not return to 154 pounds and is now the official challenger at 168.
Canelo vs. Crawford: It will be a champions’ fight
Saúl “Canelo” Álvarez comes into this matchup as the undisputed super middleweight champion, holding the WBA, WBC, WBO, and IBF titles after defeating William Scull on May 3. Opposite him will be Terence “Bud” Crawford, who boasts a perfect 41-0 record with 31 knockouts and has already been an undisputed champion in multiple divisions.
What makes this fight historic is the context: two fighters who have dominated different weight classes will face off in new territory for Crawford, who is moving up two divisions to challenge the Mexican icon. TalkSPORT summed it up clearly: the American is giving up his interim belt to focus on a golden, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Canelo and Crawford express mutual respect
Far from the usual noise that precedes a fight of this magnitude, Canelo and Crawford have exchanged gestures of respect. In an interview with Ring Magazine, the Mexican included Crawford among his top three pound-for-pound fighters, alongside Oleksandr Usyk and Naoya Inoue – a clear sign of the esteem he holds for him.
During the press tour in Las Vegas, Canelo reaffirmed that admiration in front of thousands of fans. “Crawford is one of the best of the last decade… I don’t need to trash talk. He has it all: experience, power, technique,” said the fighter from Guadalajara.
I always train as if I were going to fight Mike Tyson in his prime
Canelo vs. Crawford will be a historic fight
The WBO has moved its pieces and applied several strategies, and now everything is ready for one of the most anticipated and important fights in recent boxing history.
Mexican fighter Canelo defends his legacy. Crawford seeks to immortalize his. And the entire world will be watching, as thousands of fans, analysts, and media await this clash.
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