Weeks away from the expected fight between Saul Canelo Alvarez and Terence Bud Crawford, former world champion Antonio Tarver issued a clear warning: “Canelo hasn’t faced an opponent like this in a long time. This was stated in an interview with Pro Boxing Fans, where he praised the American’s strategic ability.
“Terence is a deep thinker, he processes the fight like no one else. He has visualized himself winning, you see him when he shadows, imagine Canelo in front of him. That’s the kind of masterful boxer Canelo will face,” said Tarver. His words have generated debate among analysts, since the Mexican is the favorite in the betting, but the respect that Crawford imposes among former boxers and technicians is remarkable.
Details of the bout: date, venue and weight
The duel will be held on Friday, September 13, 2025 at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas in front of more than 60,000 people.
Canelo will challenge for his four super middleweight (168 lbs) titles, while Crawford – who has not fought since August 2024 – will move up two divisions to seek the biggest challenge of his career.
Both are considered among the best pound-for-pound fighters of the last decade.
Contrasting trajectories in 2025
Canelo Alvarez (35 years old, 63-2-2, 39 KOs) is coming off a unanimous decision win over William Scull last May in Saudi Arabia to regain the IBF belt.
Terence Crawford (37, 41-0, 31 KOs) is undisputed champion in two different divisions (lightweight and welterweight) and is looking to make history by unifying a third division.
Canelo no ha enfrentado a un oponente como este en mucho tiempo
Antonio Tarver
Although Canelo has fought regularly over the past two years, Crawford has been out of action for more than a year, which many consider his main physical disadvantage.
Weight difference? Tarver doesn’t see it that way
Buzzy
While there is criticism of the natural weight difference, Tarver downplays that concern and highlights Crawford’s ability to adapt:
“If Bud can withstand Canelo’s punch, he can beat him. He’s not just any boxer. He prepares with mind and body,” he said.
This psychological and technical approach of the former champion has given a new dimension to the pre-fight analysis.
The Canelo-Crawford fight will be streamed live on Netflix, with production by Riyadh Season and co-promotion by the UFC and Matchroom Boxing.
For the Hispanic community in the U.S., the duel represents not only a sporting spectacle, but also a cultural moment that highlights Latin American boxing.
For more information, visit QuéOnnda.com.
