The possible mega fight between Canelo Alvarez and Terence Crawford has sparked a lot of interest, but boxing expert Paulie Malignaggi views it as more of a spectacle for casual fans rather than a true sporting event. Crawford, undefeated in 40 fights with 31 knockouts, is taking a significant leap by moving up three weight divisions to challenge Canelo for his super middleweight championship without proving himself at 168 lbs first. This move has raised doubts about the true sporting value of the matchup, with Malignaggi labeling it as a “joke fight.”
Malignaggi points out that the fight between Canelo and Crawford may not solely be about money, as it offers Canelo a convenient excuse to avoid a potential showdown with David Benavidez. By facing Crawford, Canelo can justify his decision to sidestep Benavidez to fans by claiming that the fight with Crawford was in higher demand and financially more rewarding. This strategic move might shield Canelo from criticism regarding his choice of opponents, highlighting the significance of commercial appeal in modern boxing.
The matchup between Canelo and Crawford has been touted as a clash between the #1 pound-for-pound boxer and one of the most popular fighters globally, attracting attention from both casual fans and hardcore boxing enthusiasts. However, Malignaggi raises concerns about the celebrity-like aura surrounding the fight, emphasizing that Crawford’s swift ascent through weight classes without facing top contenders undermines the traditional sporting essence of boxing. The bout’s appeal to the masses, including non-boxing fans, may indicate a broader shift towards entertainment value over sporting merit in the sport.
The Real Loser: Benavidez
In Malignaggi’s view, the potential Canelo-Crawford matchup doesn’t pose significant risks for either fighter, except for David Benavidez, who appears to be the overlooked contender in the super middleweight division. Despite Benavidez’s impressive skills and deserving status for a title shot, he continues to miss out on major opportunities to face elite fighters like Canelo. Malignaggi laments Benavidez’s plight as a talented boxer struggling to secure high-profile fights, which could ultimately hinder his progression and recognition in the sport.
The anticipation surrounding the proposed Canelo Alvarez vs. Terence Crawford fight highlights broader concerns about the direction of modern boxing. While the matchup promises entertainment value and commercial appeal, critics like Malignaggi question its true sporting value and potential implications for deserving contenders like David Benavidez. As the sport continues to evolve and cater to a diverse audience, striking a balance between spectacle and substance remains a key challenge for boxing’s stakeholders. Only time will tell whether fights like Canelo vs. Crawford will reshape the boxing landscape or perpetuate a trend towards prioritizing financial gain over competitive integrity.