In a landmark event in September, Terence Crawford secured a unanimous decision victory over Canelo Alvarez, captivating over 40 million viewers on Netflix. This victory not only earned him the undisputed super middleweight championship but also solidified his status as one of boxing’s all-time greats. With this triumph, Crawford became the undisputed champion in a third weight class, joining an elite group of five-division world champions in boxing history.
Now that Crawford has achieved this significant milestone, attention shifts to what lies ahead for the unbeaten fighter. While a rematch with Alvarez could yield another substantial payday, the necessity of such a fight is questionable given Crawford’s previous dominance. Instead, the focus is on which opponents could further enhance his legacy. There are several intriguing possibilities, including moving down to the 160-pound division or challenging established pound-for-pound fighters. Here, we examine six names that stand out as potential matchups for Crawford, each offering unique challenges and opportunities.
Top Contenders for Crawford’s Next Fight
The landscape of potential opponents for Crawford includes several notable fighters. Among them, the current WBC middleweight champion, Erickson Lubin, presents an interesting challenge. If Crawford decides to pursue a 160-pound title, a victory over Lubin would position him as only the second fighter in men’s boxing history to win titles in six divisions. During previous sparring sessions, Lubin showcased his skill set, proving he is a formidable opponent. However, Crawford’s exceptional switch-hitting ability and fight IQ could give him the edge needed to secure a victory.
Another compelling matchup could arise with IBF and WBO middleweight champion Janibek Alimkhanuly. Reports indicate that negotiations are underway for a unification bout between Alimkhanuly and WBA champion Erislandy Lara. If Alimkhanuly emerges victorious, a fight with Crawford would be highly anticipated. This matchup would be a tactical challenge, as both fighters are known for their power and strategic prowess. Crawford’s experience could play a crucial role, particularly given Alimkhanuly’s limited 12-round experience.
Crawford’s potential bout against WBA middleweight champion Erislandy Lara also merits discussion. Although Lara is known for his elusive style, which makes him a difficult opponent, a matchup with Crawford could be beneficial. Despite being viewed as a high-risk, low-reward scenario for Crawford, the opportunity to add another title to his accolades might entice him. With both fighters matching in reach, this contest would demand a significant level of tactical adjustment from Crawford.
High-Stakes Showdowns Await
Two additional names present the ultimate test for Crawford’s skill and determination. The first is WBC light heavyweight champion David Benavidez. Despite Benavidez currently competing at 175 pounds, a hypothetical return to 168 pounds for a showdown with Crawford would be a highly anticipated clash. Benavidez’s reputation for relentless pressure and powerful combinations could push Crawford to new competitive heights. The physical advantages Benavidez holds would create a challenging dynamic, but Crawford’s superior skill set makes it hard to rule him out.
Lastly, a potential matchup with Dmitry Bivol, the reigning IBF, WBO, and WBA light heavyweight champion, represents an intriguing challenge for Crawford. Known for his tactical prowess and ability to control distance, Bivol would force Crawford to adapt his strategy significantly. This encounter could become a cerebral battle of wits, testing Crawford’s skill and adaptability against a disciplined opponent.
While Crawford’s next moves remain uncertain, the potential for legacy-defining fights looms large. Each of these matchups presents unique challenges that could either solidify Crawford’s legacy or expose vulnerabilities. As the new king of the 168-pound division, Crawford is now the target for rising contenders like Diego Pacheco, who will undoubtedly seek the opportunity to dethrone him. Ultimately, the direction Crawford chooses to take will not only impact his own career but could also reshape the landscape of boxing for years to come.
