Undisputed welterweight king Terence Crawford has issued a sharp response to criticism from boxing legend Floyd Mayweather Jr., suggesting the retired champion's comments are a calculated attempt to remain in the spotlight.
The exchange began when Mayweather, during an appearance on The Pivot Podcast, appeared to question the quality of Crawford's recent opponents. Crawford, known for his calm demeanour outside the ring, did not hold back in his retort.
'Why Now, Floyd?' Crawford Questions Motives
Speaking to the press, Crawford expressed his bewilderment at the timing and nature of Mayweather's remarks. "It's funny he's saying that now," Crawford stated. "He never said anything like that to me face-to-face. It makes you wonder what the real reason is. Is it for clicks? Is it to stay relevant? I'm focused on building my own legacy, not talking about others."
This public spat highlights the often-complex relationships between generations of fighters, where respect and rivalry frequently intertwine.
The Canelo Challenge: A Legacy-Defining Goal
Beyond the war of words, Crawford reaffirmed his ambition to achieve what many consider impossible: moving up three weight classes to challenge the formidable undisputed super-middleweight champion, Canelo Álvarez.
"That's the fight I want," Crawford declared emphatically. "I believe I have the skills, the IQ, and the heart to compete with Canelo. It would be a huge event for the sport, and I'm willing to take that risk to cement my legacy."
Such a fight would be a monumental undertaking. The size and power disparity between the two champions is significant, but Crawford's technical brilliance and undefeated record make it a tantalising prospect for fans.
A Clash of Eras and Egos
The situation presents a fascinating dynamic. On one side is Floyd Mayweather, the retired 'Money' star whose own legacy was built on meticulous career management and unparalleled defensive skill. On the other is Terence Crawford, the current pound-for-pound elite, seeking to carve his own path with audacious challenges.
Whether the Canelo fight materialises remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Terence Crawford is not shying away from the biggest challenges, both inside the ring and out.
