The buzz surrounding a rematch between Terence Crawford and Canelo Alvarez could soon die down after Crawford reportedly demanded a staggering $100 million purse for the return fight.
A report from Mexican outlet TV Azteca claimed that negotiations are already underway with Canelo’s camp over a rematch. Per the broadcaster, Canelo’s priority for 2026 is a rematch to gain revenge on the American fighter.
But Crawford’s financial demand now puts promoter Turki Alalshikh in a difficult position, weighing whether such a figure is worth the reward. According to insiders close to the negotiations, that seven-figure price tag is non-negotiable.
“Let me say this one last time, if they don’t give him $100 million, it ain’t happening. Them is Crawford‘s words,” said trainer Bernie Tha Boxer when asked about the rematch demands.
That ultimatum comes despite a lukewarm reception to their September 13 showdown, where many critics and fans labelled the fight ‘boring’.
Far from it being a thrilling encounter, many spectators described Crawford‘s style as tactical and evasive rather than action-packed.
For a fight once billed as a “super fight” and marketed heavily worldwide, the performance failed to match the hype, undermining Crawford‘s leverage for a payday that doubles what both men reportedly earned last time.
Why the rematch demand may kill the fight
Crawford‘s push for such a high payday makes little sense to many in boxing’s business circles.
The perceived lack of entertainment value during the first fight has eroded public demand, meaning a huge financial risk for anyone underwriting a rematch.
Given that Canelo Alvarez already pulled in a massive payday last time, promoters now question whether forcing another bout at Crawford‘s price can attract sufficient interest to recoup costs.
The ask challenges the notion that paydays should reflect legacy rather than risk. The argument that Crawford deserves it because he’s the champion doesn’t hold up if fans feel they didn’t get a memorable fight the first time.
For Turki Alalshikh, it presents a crossroads situation. He can either break the bank for a big name or pivot to younger, hungrier fighters with high upside and lower price tags.
Names like Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis, David Benavidez, or Lester Martinez are reportedly under consideration, offering potential spectacle without the huge financial commitment.
What’s at stake for boxing
If Terence Crawford and Canelo Alvarez don’t agree on terms, it may signal the end of a time where legacy fights command astronomical paydays.
Promoters may become more cautious, favouring matchups between up-and-comers or fights guaranteed to deliver action and interest.
For star fighters, this could mean fewer “safe” legacy-based paydays and more need to prove drawing power either through performance or marketability.
For fans, it might mean a shift towards more evenly matched, competitive fights rather than big-name rematches – which could be a good thing for sport integrity.
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