Terence Crawford has been encouraged to consider a different path instead of a potential rematch with Canelo Alvarez, as he seeks to further define his legacy in the boxing world. The three-division undisputed champion recently made headlines when he moved up two weight classes to take on Canelo in September, where he secured a resounding victory that crowned him the new super-middleweight champion.
Before this impressive victory against Alvarez, Crawford faced skepticism regarding his size and abilities at super-welterweight, particularly during his fight with Israil Madrimov, where he nonetheless captured the WBA world title in August of the previous year. A similar narrative unfolded leading up to his highly anticipated match with Errol Spence Jr. at 147 pounds. However, Crawford silenced his doubters with a dominant ninth-round stoppage win in 2023.
In the wake of his triumph over Alvarez, there has been speculation about a potential rematch, with reports suggesting a fight could happen in 2026. Despite ongoing discussions about this second encounter at 168 pounds, Crawford’s camp has been presented with an exciting alternative.
Vadim Kornilov, the manager of Dmitry Bivol, has hinted at the prospect of a clash between Bivol and Crawford, which would feature two of boxing’s pound-for-pound elite. Bivol recently captured his undisputed crown at 175 pounds with a notable points victory over Artur Beterbiev in February, reversing a previous defeat to the fighter. After vacating his WBC title, currently held by David Benavidez, Bivol has been sidelined due to a back injury but has undergone successful surgery.
Now, with Bivol potentially looking to return to the ring, Kornilov insists that a fight against Crawford would be mutually beneficial and the most enticing option for both champions. This matchup could not only revive the interest in both fighters but also offer fans another marquee event in the boxing calendar, signaling a promising outlook for Crawford’s career as he continues to navigate the elite level of the sport.