Terence Crawford’s trainer, Brian ‘BoMac’ McIntyre, is confident in his fighter’s ability to move up three weight classes to potentially fight Canelo Alvarez after his match against WBA junior middleweight champion Israil Madrimov on August 3rd in Los Angeles. However, this move is not without its risks.
Crawford’s decision to jump from 154 to 168, challenging Canelo for his undisputed super middleweight championship, with no prior experience in the division, is a bold and potentially dangerous move. The 36-year-old Crawford is banking on his superior skills as a fighter to carry him through, but the leap in weight against a tough opponent like Madrimov after a 13-month layoff is a risky gamble that could backfire.
Overconfidence and Greed
There is a sense of overconfidence and greed driving Crawford’s decision-making. His desire for the lucrative Canelo payday has led him to take major risks without the proper preparation and acclimation in the 154 division. By skipping the traditional route of tune-up fights and jumping straight into a high-stakes match against Madrimov, Crawford is tempting fate in his pursuit of a shot at Canelo.
If Crawford were to lose to Madrimov, it would raise questions about his rushed approach and lack of respect for the challenges of moving up in weight. The potential consequences of such a defeat could derail his dream of facing Canelo and tarnish his reputation among fans and critics alike.
No Room for Error
With so much on the line, Crawford cannot afford to underestimate his opponent or look past the challenges in front of him. Madrimov represents a different level of competition compared to Crawford’s previous fights at 147 and 140. The risks of facing a superior opponent are compounded by Crawford’s age, reduced activity in the ring, and the long layoff leading up to this fight.
While BoMac is eager for Crawford to secure the Canelo fight, the potential consequences of such a match must be carefully considered. The financial rewards may be tempting, but the cost of a one-sided defeat at the hands of Canelo could be damaging to Crawford’s legacy and prospects in the sport.
Overall, Crawford’s bold career moves and ambitious goals show a combination of determination, confidence, and perhaps a hint of recklessness. While the potential rewards are high, the risks are equally significant, and Crawford must tread carefully to avoid jeopardizing his future in the sport. As the fight against Madrimov approaches, all eyes will be on Crawford to see if his calculated gamble will pay off or if his overconfidence will be his downfall.