Terence Crawford accomplished what many thought was impossible by convincingly overthrowing super-middleweight champion Canelo Alvarez by moving up two weight categories.
At Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, the 37-year-old’s historic victory was solidified by scorecards of 116–112 and 115–113 twice.
However, given that the skilled technician went on to become an undisputed champion in three divisions, one could argue that Crawford, who is 42-0 (31 KOs), is actually the most complete fighter of his generation.
Crawford started the battle in the southpaw position, demonstrating quick reflexes that allowed him to avoid the majority of his opponent’s thudding blows.
Canelo Alvarez couldn’t handle Terence Crawford’s counter
Canelo, 63-3-2 (39 KOs), did manage to win the second round with a few of sharp left hooks to the body, but Crawford, who was somewhat more active, kept his feet moving and blasted out his right hand.
The third round followed the same trend, with Canelo launching another body attack and Crawford countering with a dazzling counter combination.
After that, the Mexican focused on the upper deck, delivering a particularly powerful right hand in the fourth round, while Crawford continued to move laterally and produced a number of striking flurries.
But as their captivating chess battle moved into the middle rounds, Canelo only kept pushing forward, his aggression becoming a bigger concern for “Bud.”
