by Author Rooks/ Boxing Contributor
Turki Alalshikh, a prominent figure in sports promotions, has expressed his determination to stage a blockbuster fight between boxing giants Canelo Álvarez and Terence Crawford. In a conversation with ESPN’s Mike Coppinger, Alalshikh revealed his plans to potentially arrange this high-profile match, either in December or January. He emphasized his commitment to delivering a significant opponent for Crawford, with Canelo being a prime candidate. The collaboration between Alalshikh and Crawford has already seen fruition with the upcoming bout against Israil Madrimov on August 3 in Los Angeles, showcasing Alalshikh’s respect and support for Crawford’s career and contributions to boxing.
The financial and logistical stakes for arranging a fight between Canelo, the undisputed super middleweight champion, and Crawford, who would need to jump up two weight classes, are enormous. Canelo, known for his shrewd business acumen, previously dismissed a potential fight with David Benavidez unless a staggering purse of $150 million or more was involved. The prospect of Canelo vs. Crawford not only tantalizes fans with the possibility of determining the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world but also involves intricate negotiations and strategic planning. The success of this potential matchup hinges on Crawford’s performance in August, as a defeat could jeopardize the feasibility of this mega-fight, underscoring the high risks and rewards inherent in boxing promotions.