Terence Crawford makes surprising admission in post-fight press conference

On September 13 at Allegiant Stadium, in Las Vegas, Terence Crawford (42-0, 31 KOs) made history in defeating Canelo Alvarez (63-3-2, 39 KOs) by unanimous decision. The win ensured Crawford became a three-division undisputed champion and four-division lineal champion. Following this historic fight, “Bud” appeared at the post-fight press conference and made a surprising admission regarding Canelo’s power.

Terence Crawford creates history with Sep. 13 win over Canelo Alvarez

It was a cautious start for both as they tried to establish their distance for the fight. Crawford’s slick movement made him a difficult target to pin down, with Canelo limited to the occasional hook. 

The Mexican had his moments when it looked like he was about to take over the fight, but Crawford reasserted his control by landing smart combinations and moving out of range.

Crawford never looked in trouble at any point and sat down on his punches from time to time before moving quickly out of range. As the fight reached the later stages, Crawford sustained a cut due to an accidental head clash. 

Any subsequent drama from this failed to arrive as “Bud” stayed disciplined, landing hurtful punches right near the final bell. The judges’ scorecards favoured the cleaner work of Crawford, crowning him the undisputed super middleweight champion by unanimous decision, with cards of 116-112 and 115-113 (x2).

It was a perfect plan, delivered to perfection by a pound-for-pound great. Is Terence Crawford this generation’s GOAT?

Terence Crawford’s surprising post-fight admission

In the post-fight press conference, Crawford discussed Canelo’s power: 

“I’ve been hit harder,” said Crawford.

“Mean Machine (Egidijus Kavaliauskas) hit harder than Canelo to me. To be honest.”

Looking back on Crawford’s success in Las Vegas, he never looked uncomfortable at any time. He moved with purpose and engaged at the right times, ensuring he controlled the distance effectively and picked his moments to engage perfectly.

Crawford moved up two weight classes – arguably three, having only fought once at super welterweight against Israil Madrimov. This achievement cannot be underestimated. Terence “Bud” Crawford has created history.