Recently, Terence Crawford, an undefeated champion, was spotted sitting alongside Dmitry Bivol during the IBF Champions Night event. This encounter sparked speculation that Crawford may be seeking advice from Bivol in anticipation of a possible bout against famed boxer Canelo Alvarez scheduled for next May. While such a strategy might appear to be a clever tactical decision at first glance, a critical analysis reveals several issues in this approach.
Crawford, boasting an impressive record of 41 wins and 31 knockouts, is significantly smaller and possesses a differing fighting style than Bivol, who is a former WBA light heavyweight champion. In the realm of boxing, success often hinges upon understanding one’s strengths and weaknesses; therefore, mimicking another fighter’s approach can backfire. Bivol’s boxing style, which relies on size, strength, and power, is incongruent with what Crawford brings to the ring. This disparity raises doubts about the effectiveness of insights Bivol could offer Crawford when it comes to countering Canelo’s technique and attributes.
Rumors circulate that Crawford’s initial interest in a matchup against Vergil Ortiz Jr. for February 22nd was thwarted due to a minor injury, now delaying his return until May. This timeline aligns conveniently with Alvarez’s schedule, leading many to speculate whether Crawford is strategically maneuvering to sidestep a potentially challenging fight against Ortiz. The reality is that by bypassing the Ortiz match, Crawford risks presenting himself as hesitant, which could be detrimental to his legacy and reputation in a sport that values resilience.
Drawing attention to various monetary figures circulating, it has been suggested that Canelo’s $180 million demand to face Crawford serves as a clear message reflecting his disinterest in the matchup. At this point, the prospect of Crawford engaging in a high-stakes fight with Alvarez seems remote, especially if money becomes a central negotiating factor. Hence, Crawford’s engagement with Bivol appears more like a desperate bid to capitalize on knowledge from a fighter who has himself recently suffered a significant defeat.
It is worth recalling that Bivol dealt Alvarez his most crushing defeat in May 2022, showcasing a performance that has given some legitimacy to Bivol’s tactical prowess. However, following a disappointing loss to Artur Beterbiev in October, Bivol’s standing as a credible advisor is questionable. The reality of his last fight illustrates a decline in form, indicating that he might not possess the insights that Crawford hopes to glean.
Ultimately, Crawford’s approach appears fraught with inconsistency. Whether relying on Bivol’s questionable expertise or attempting to sidestep formidable opponents to secure a clash with Alvarez, he seems to be at a crossroads. The boxing world is watching to see if Crawford can steer himself toward a meaningful fight that will not only solidify his standing in the sport but also illuminate his skills in the ring against elite competition. If he wants to earn respect and a legitimate shot at Canelo, he must adopt a more courageous and authentic strategy than what he seems to be pursuing.
Leave a Reply