Undefeated former world champion Andre Ward has recently criticized Canelo Alvarez for his attitude towards a potential fight with Terence Crawford. Following Crawford’s incredible TKO victory over Errol Spence Jr. in 2023, he called for a clash with the undisputed super middleweight champion.
However, the Mexican dismissed the callout, citing the size difference between the two boxers as the main reason. Despite ‘Bud’ being arguably the No. 1 pound-for-pound boxer in the world, Alvarez stated that he would not be given the credit he deserves for a victory over the American due to the size disparity. Ward, during an interview with FightHype.com, expressed his frustration, emphasizing the need for consistency in fighters’ statements:
“I don’t think [Alvarez] is going to take [the fight with Crawford]. And the excuses for not taking it don’t make sense. [Crawford] is too small, you wouldn’t get credit. But you didn’t say that when you fought Amir Khan. So look, we gotta be consistent in what we say.”
The Size Disparity Debate
While three weight classes currently separate Alvarez and Crawford, famed boxing analyst Teddy Atlas believes that neither the size difference nor the power gap would be a problem for ‘Bud’ to overcome. Crawford’s skill set and versatility have earned him accolades across weight divisions, making him a formidable opponent regardless of the size factor.
David Benavidez’s Challenge
In addition to Crawford, another contender has been calling out Alvarez: David Benavidez. The super middleweight division’s rising star has been vocal about his desire to face the Mexican champion. Benavidez, alongside Crawford, has been relentless in his pursuit of a showdown with Alvarez. The WBC titleholder has been inactive since June 2021, but his talent and hunger for success remain undiminished. Benavidez’s recent demand for a purse of $150-$200 million to fight Alvarez raised eyebrows, especially considering Alvarez’s assertion that Benavidez doesn’t bring anything to the table. Benavidez responded defiantly:
“I’m not scared of anybody. I’ve hurt everybody that’s been in front of me, and Canelo is no different. I will hurt him too and take all his belts. It’s crazy that he asked for $150 million, $200 million to fight me, but he still has the nerve to say that I don’t bring anything to the table.”
As the boxing world eagerly awaits Alvarez’s next move, the call for consistency resonates. Fighters must stand by their words, regardless of opponents or circumstances. Whether it’s facing a smaller opponent like Crawford or a hungry challenger like Benavidez, consistency in statements reflects integrity and respect for the sport. Let’s hope that Alvarez heeds Ward’s advice and delivers on the promise of exciting matchups for fans worldwide.
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