With just weeks to go, boxing fans are gearing up for a marquee showdown as Canelo Álvarez and Terence Crawford collide for the undisputed 168-pound championship. The bout is set for September 13 at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, with Canelo putting his four middleweight titles (WBC, WBA, WBO, IBF) on the line against Crawford, who will move up two weight classes to challenge for the crown.
Amir Khan, who has faced both fighters, offered his take on the matchup and warned Crawford about the power of the Mexican star. In a recent interview, Khan said that Canelo’s power is devastating and that he is “very strong.” He predicts a tightly contested bout, giving Crawford a slight edge—about 55% to 45%—on the basis that Crawford is typically fresher and has not absorbed as many beatings.
Context from the past: Khan and Canelo met on May 7, 2016, at the T-Mobile Arena, with Canelo reinforcing his world title by stopping Khan in the sixth round. That history adds another layer to the intrigue surrounding this upcoming clash.
Canelo’s knockout status ahead of the fight has been a talking point. Since stopping Caleb Plant in 2021 to unify the four super middleweight titles, he has not registered a knockout in bouts against John Ryder, Jermell Charlo, Jaime Munguía, or Edgar Berlanga. That sequence has spurred discussions about his evolving approach, his power at higher speeds and weights, and whether his opponents can withstand his punch when the pressure intensifies.
What to watch for in this heavyweight showdown:
– Power vs. strategy: Will Canelo’s punching power translate at 168, and can Crawford withstand the surge and find openings at a higher weight?
– Distance and pace: Crawford’s movement and angles vs. Canelo’s pressure and body work could shape the pace of the fight.
– Ring rust and adjustment: Crawford shifting up two divisions presents questions about adaptation and stamina over championship rounds.
– Legacy implications: A win would cement Crawford as a true force at 168 and add another historic chapter to both careers.
In short, the bout represents a historic crossroad that could redefine legacies on both sides. It’s poised to deliver a high-stakes, high-profile matchup that combines power, technique, and tactical chess, generating excitement for fans around the world. A win for either fighter would reinforce their place among the sport’s all-time greats and leave fans eagerly awaiting what comes next.