The warning that shakes Canelo Álvarez: Is he ready for the Terence Crawford challenge?
“Canelo hasn’t faced an opponent like this in a long time,” said the American. For Tarver, Crawford tactical intelligence, versatility, and precision pose an unprecedented challenge for the current super middleweight king.
Crawford: The opponent Canelo Álvarez has never faced before
Unlike other challengers, Crawford doesn’t aim to provoke or unsettle his opponent with words, he lets his fists do the talking. His methodical style, ability to switch stances, and talent for reading opponents make him, according to his supporters, a “chess master” inside the ring.
Terence Crawford is staying locked in for his super fight with Canelo Alvarez 😤🔒#CaneloCrawford live on Netflix l Sept 13th in Las Vegas 🥊
🎟️ Get your tickets now: https://t.co/z276Bc1LtB pic.twitter.com/TBOpBLf3ZE
— Ring Magazine (@ringmagazine) July 20, 2025
Tarver, who has shared the ring with boxing legends, explained that Crawford has been visualizing this fight for years. Every shadowboxing session has been part of his preparation for this moment.
“Watch his movement, he’s already lived this fight two or three times,” Tarver said, referring to how Crawford studies and anticipates his rivals, with Canelo Álvarez now in his crosshairs.
Moreover, big names like Shakur Stevenson, Claressa Shields, and Dmitry Bivol have voiced their support for Crawford, suggesting that Canelo’s dominance could be in real danger.
A New King at 168 Pounds?
While Canelo Álvarez enters the bout as the favorite in Vegas and will enjoy strong crowd support, Tarver warns that the Mexican will need to return to the form he showed in his 2021 fight against Caleb Plant if he wants to keep his title.
Crawford speed, footwork, and ambidexterity could tip the balance. And if Tarver’s prediction holds true, September 13 may mark the beginning of a new era in the super middleweight division.
