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| Terence Crawford, right, throws a punch at Canelo Alvarez in the 10th round, September 14, 2025 [Sarah Stier/Getty Images via AFP] |
On September 14, 2025, boxing witnessed a historic moment as Terence "Bud" Crawford (41-0, 31 KOs) defeated Saúl "Canelo" Álvarez (61-3-2, 39 KOs) to claim the undisputed super middleweight championship. The fight, held at Las Vegas' T-Mobile Arena, solidified Crawford’s legacy as one of the greatest pound-for-pound fighters of all time, making him the first boxer to achieve undisputed status in four weight divisions. Here’s a breakdown of the epic showdown and its implications for the sport.
The Fight: Tactical Mastery vs. Power
Terence Crawford, known for his switch-hitting style and ring IQ, executed a flawless game plan against the aggressive Álvarez. From the opening bell, Crawford used his reach and footwork to control distance, peppering Álvarez with sharp jabs and counter combinations. Álvarez, typically a slow starter, struggled to cut off the ring and found himself consistently outlanded in the early rounds.
As the fight progressed, Álvarez adjusted, landing several powerful body shots and left hooks that tested Crawford’s resilience. However, Crawford’s ability to switch stances and adapt mid-fight proved decisive. In the championship rounds, Crawford intensified his attack, stunning Álvarez with a straight left in the 11th round and nearly securing a knockdown. The judges scored the fight 116-112, 115-113, and 117-111, all in favor of Crawford.
Historical Context: Terence Crawford’ Unprecedented Achievement
Crawford’s victory marks a milestone in boxing history. He now joins an elite group of fighters who have won titles in multiple divisions, but he stands alone as the first to become undisputed champion in four weight classes:
- Lightweight (135 lbs)
- Junior Welterweight (140 lbs)
- Welterweight (147 lbs)
- Super Middleweight (168 lbs)
This accomplishment surpasses even the legendary achievements of fighters like Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather Jr., who secured titles in multiple divisions but never achieved undisputed status across four. Crawford’s journey from Nebraska to boxing immortality is a testament to his skill, discipline, and strategic brilliance.
The Undercard: Rising Stars and Future Contenders
The event also featured several compelling matchups that showcased boxing’s next generation:
- David Benavidez dominated Diego Pacheco via unanimous decision, positioning himself as a potential future opponent for Crawford.
- Shakur Stevenson retained his lightweight titles with a technical masterclass against William Zepeda, winning by TKO in the 9th round.
- Claressa Shields made history by becoming the first female fighter to headline a Las Vegas card, defeating Savannah Marshall in a rematch to unify the middleweight division.
What’s Next for Alvarez Canelo?
For Álvarez, this loss raises questions about his future. At 35, he remains a formidable force but may consider moving back to light heavyweight or pursuing legacy fights against contenders like David Benavidez. Some speculate retirement could be on the horizon, though Álvarez hinted in his post-fight interview that he would "take time to reflect" before deciding.
Crawford’s Next Move: Welterweight Unification or Light Heavyweight?
With this victory, Crawford has endless options. He could defend his super middleweight titles against mandatory challengers like Edgar Berlanga or pursue a move to light heavyweight for a chance to become a five-division champion. Alternatively, he might return to welterweight to face Jaron "Boots" Ennis in a long-awaited unification bout.
Global Reaction: Praise from Legends and Fans
The boxing world erupted in applause for Crawford’s achievement. Floyd Mayweather Jr. called it "one of the greatest performances I’ve ever seen," while Manny Pacquiao tweeted, "Crawford is a true warrior and inspiration." Fans on social media celebrated the fight as a classic, with many hailing Crawford as the "GOAT" of his era.
By the Numbers: Fight Statistics
- Punches Thrown: Crawford 712, Álvarez 589
- Punches Landed: Crawford 254, Álvarez 178
- Jab Accuracy: Crawford 38%, Álvarez 22%
- Power Shots: Crawford 45%, Álvarez 41%
Crawford’s superior accuracy and volume were key factors in his victory.
Conclusion: A New Era in Boxing
Terence Crawford’s win over Canelo Álvarez is more than a personal triumph it signals a shifting landscape in boxing. With his unparalleled achievements, Crawford has cemented his place among the all-time greats. As the sport looks ahead, potential matchups against rising stars and established champions promise to keep fans on the edge of their seats.