Mike Tyson Opposes Crawford Fighting Canelo Alvarez at 168 Pounds

In the world of boxing, matchups that seem improbable but highly intriguing can create significant buzz among fans and pundits alike. One such proposed bout that has garnered attention is a potential fight between Terence “Bud” Crawford and Saúl “Canelo” Álvarez.

Crawford, currently the undisputed welterweight champion, and Álvarez, who has dominated multiple weight classes, are two of the most prominent figures in boxing today. However, as exciting as the prospect might be, there are serious concerns regarding the weight disparity.

One of the most vocal critics of this proposed matchup at 168 pounds is none other than boxing legend Mike Tyson.

A Clash of Stars: Crawford vs. Canelo

Crawford and Canelo both have impeccable records and legacies in their respective weight divisions. Crawford, known for his speed, versatility, and technical prowess, holds an undefeated record and has established himself as one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the sport.

His dominant performance against Errol Spence Jr. to become the undisputed welterweight champion only solidified his status. On the other hand, Canelo has conquered multiple weight divisions, from super welterweight (154 pounds) to light heavyweight (175 pounds).

This difference in size is why Crawford’s odds of beating Canelo aren’t that great. Despite adapting to different styles and being considered a fearsome opponent, his odds are around +300 at many traditional sportsbooks and crypto betting sites. These crypto platforms often provide competitive odds and betting options like Methods of Victory and Round bets, allowing fans to engage more deeply with the action.

This, coupled with his powerful counter-punching and bodywork, has made him one of the most feared fighters in the ring. Holding the undisputed super middleweight title (168 pounds), Canelo has fought and defeated some of the best in the sport, including Gennady Golovkin, Callum Smith, and Caleb Plant.

As both fighters reign at the top of their divisions, the prospect of Crawford moving up to face Canelo has piqued interest. However, the jump from welterweight (147 pounds) to super middleweight (168 pounds) is significant, and it is this very aspect that has drawn caution from many in the boxing community, including Mike Tyson.

Mike Tyson’s Concerns: Weight Matters

Mike Tyson, the former heavyweight champion who himself redefined the sport in the late 1980s and 1990s, has never shied away from offering his opinions on contemporary boxing matchups. Tyson’s opposition to the proposed Crawford versus Canelo fight stems primarily from the weight difference.

According to Tyson, Crawford fighting Canelo at 168 pounds would not only put him at a considerable disadvantage, but it could also compromise his safety. In several interviews, Tyson emphasized the importance of weight in boxing, particularly when dealing with elite fighters like Canelo.

Tyson even remarked that although Crawford is a great fighter, moving to 168 pounds from 147 pounds to fight Canelo is very dangerous. He elaborated on how jumping multiple weight divisions could lead to a loss of speed, stamina, and, most importantly, the ability to absorb punches from a naturally bigger and stronger fighter like Canelo.

Historical Precedents: The Risk of Jumping Weight Classes

Boxing history is full of examples where fighters moving up in weight encountered severe difficulties. Even some of the sport's greatest champions, such as Sugar Ray Leonard and Roy Jones Jr., faced challenges when fighting much bigger opponents.

In Leonard's case, his move up to face Donny Lalonde for a light heavyweight title was taxing despite his victory. Similarly, Jones, who dominated at light heavyweight, struggled when he later moved up to heavyweight, even though he won the WBA heavyweight title against John Ruiz.

These historical precedents offer cautionary tales for fighters like Crawford, who may consider stepping into the ring against physically larger opponents. Although Crawford’s skill set is extraordinary, the size and power difference against someone like Canelo could neutralize many of his advantages.

A Catchweight Compromise?

One potential solution that has been floated is for the fight to happen at a catchweight, somewhere between 160 and 164 pounds. A catchweight could mitigate some of the concerns about size while still allowing fans to witness a super fight.

However, whether Canelo, who holds all four super middleweight titles, would agree to such a stipulation remains a question. Canelo has fought comfortably at 168 pounds for several years and may not see the need to concede weight for a potential Crawford bout.