The possibility of Saul “Canelo” Alvarez eyeing a showdown with fellow four-division and undisputed champion Terence Crawford in pursuit of Saudi Arabian riches has sparked a flurry of strong opinions.
On ProBox TV’s “Deep Waters,” analysts debated the merits of Alvarez potentially relinquishing his IBF super middleweight belt to avoid facing William Scull of Cuba and instead targeting current welterweight champion Crawford. Analyst Paulie Malignaggi criticized Alvarez for potentially dodging his most formidable opponent, David Benavidez, and opting for what he labeled a “fantasy fight“ against Crawford.
Malignaggi expressed concern over the influence of Saudi royal adviser Turki Alalshikh in the fight-making business, suggesting that it disrupts the natural order of boxing divisions. He likened the situation to a hypothetical 1980s scenario where Tyson might have fought Sugar Ray Leonard, highlighting the unconventional nature of such matchups.
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Panelist Chris Algieri, a former 140-pound world titleholder, echoed Malignaggi’s sentiments, arguing that the money would be better spent on the Benavidez fight. Algieri emphasized the depth of talent in the 154-pound division, with fighters like two-belt champion Sebastian Fundora, former champion Tim Tszyu, and Tszyu’s upcoming opponent, Vergil Ortiz Jr., offering plenty of exciting matchups for Crawford.
In contrast, Tim Bradley supported Crawford’s ambition to challenge Alvarez, acknowledging Crawford’s long-term pursuit of this high-profile bout. Bradley praised Crawford’s quest for greatness and the opportunity to solidify his status as the pound-for-pound No. 1 fighter by taking on Alvarez.
However, Algieri remained skeptical, doubting whether Alvarez, who has previously dismissed a Crawford fight as a “no-win” scenario, would be willing to risk his legacy against a naturally lighter opponent. Algieri suggested that if Alvarez does take the fight, he should relinquish all his belts to avoid diminishing their significance.
And what do you think? Should Canelo drop his belt to pursue bigger fights?
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