As the fight between Canelo Alvarez and Terence Crawford on September 13 approaches, the focus is not only on the spectacle inside the ring, but also on what happens outside.
Crawford has had to leave behind some recent achievements, and his most recent loss was confirmed by the World Boxing Association.
Crawford will lose WBA title when he moves up
After relinquishing the WBA interim belt in March, as part of the transition to the super middleweight fight with Canelo, Crawford will now also lose his WBA super welterweight world title
This was confirmed by journalist Dan Rafael through his social networks: “when Crawford steps into the ring against Canelo, he will lose recognition as the WBA 154-pound champion,” he said.
What happened to Terence Crawford?
Crawford has not fought at super welterweight since he defeated Israil Madrimov, and although his aspirations are set on making history as an undisputed champion in a fifth category, his previous titles will be vacated.
The WBA already has the transition planned: “Baraou, who won the interim title against Tellez, will be elevated, and a mandatory defense against Jermell Charlo will be ordered,” added Rafael.
Abass Baraou defeated Yoenis Tellez in Orlando with a unanimous decision victory, and will now have the chance to establish himself as the absolute champion in the category.
Terrence Crawford after the $200 million purse
Beyond the titles, the clash with Canelo represents an unprecedented financial reward for Crawford: the combined purse is expected to reach $200 million, with $150 million for Canelo and $50 million for Crawford
With that figure in mind, losing a belt seems an acceptable cost to access the biggest fight of his career. The remaining question is whether he will be able to measure up to an experienced Canelo Alvarez who seems to prepare and study his opponents better every day.
If he manages to win against Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez, it will matter little that he lost the WBA title. It is a calculated risk and one that he seems willing to take in order to put his name at the top of the boxing world. Only time and the outcome of the fight will tell if the gamble paid off.
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