In front of more than 70,000 roaring fans at Allegiant Stadium, Las Vegas, Terence “Bud” Crawford pulled off what many thought was near impossible — he beat Canelo Álvarez by unanimous decision, becoming undisputed super-middleweight champion in a third weight division.
Here’s a quick look at what stood out — and the moments of class that will linger long after the final bell.
Fight Highlights
- Style vs. Power & Precision: Crawford came up two weight classes to face a legend. He moved well, used sharp counters, kept his distance, frustrated Canelo’s power shots, and controlled the pace of the fight.
- Scoring: Judges tallied the fight 116-112, 115-113, 115-113 in favor of Crawford. Tight cards, but convincingly in his favor overall.
- Key Rounds: Crawford’s dominance became especially clear midway through the fight. He outlanded Canelo in total punches and jab metrics. Canelo had moments — some good shots, body work, attempts to pressure — but never consistently did enough to shift momentum.
- Historic Achievement: With this win, Crawford becomes the first male boxer, in the four-belt era, to hold undisputed titles in three separate weight classes. That’s a legacy moment.
The Humility of Crawford (and Even Canelo)
What made this fight more than just a spectacle was how both fighters handled the result, especially Crawford:
- Crawford was respectful. After the decision, he praised Canelo as a great champion, said he “fought like a champion,” acknowledged the sacrifice and preparation from both camps.
- Despite severe stakes and expectations, he kept composure. Even with critics and doubters, he focused on his game plan, skill, patience. Classic Crawford traits shining on the biggest stage.
- Canelo, in defeat, was gracious. He admitted he couldn’t “figure out” Crawford’s style. Instead of excuses, he praised Crawford’s skill, accepted the loss with dignity, and even said that taking risks is part of what defines him.
What This Means Moving Forward
- Crawford’s legacy just expanded. He’s not just in the conversation now — he’s earned respect through action, not hype.
- For Canelo, this loss doesn’t erase what he’s achieved. But it raises questions: adjustments needed, strategy vs. style, future matchups. He showed he still has heart, but sometimes heart isn’t enough.
- For boxing fans, this fight reminded us greatness comes in many forms — not just power or dominance, but strategy, humility, and respect.
