By Arthur Rooks, Boxing Contributor
Terence Crawford, one of the most accomplished and respected fighters of his generation, appears to be at a crossroads in his career. At 36 years old, with numerous accolades under his belt, Crawford has reportedly set his sights on a lucrative bout against Canelo Alvarez.
However, His Excellency Turki Alalshikh believes that Crawford’s focus on securing a fight with Canelo might be more of a wishful ambition than a realistic next step. With Canelo seemingly uninterested, Crawford might find himself in a precarious position as he approaches his 37th birthday.
Alalshikh has voiced his doubts about Crawford’s willingness to face younger and more physically imposing fighters like Vergil Ortiz Jr., who recently claimed the WBC interim 154-lb title. According to Turki, Crawford has his mind made up about fighting Canelo next, potentially leaving other viable contenders like Ortiz, Tim Tszyu, and Sebastian Fundora in the dust.
This reluctance to engage with the rising stars of the division raises questions about Crawford’s future, especially after his recent lackluster decision win over Israil Madrimov.
As Crawford inches closer to retirement age, his options may be narrowing. If Canelo remains uninterested, Crawford might have to reconsider his strategy or even his career trajectory. Will he take on the younger lions in the division, or could this be the beginning of the end for one of boxing’s modern greats? The next few months could be crucial in determining whether Bud Crawford continues his legacy in the ring or gracefully steps away from the sport.