The boxing world is embroiled in a heated controversy following a stunning intervention from World Boxing Council (WBC) President Mauricio Sulaiman. The official publicly endorsed Terence Crawford's bold challenge to move up three weight classes and face the formidable super-middleweight king, Canelo Alvarez.
The proposed bout, which would see 'Bud' Crawford leap from welterweight to 168lbs, has been met with widespread scepticism from pundits and fans alike. Many view the size disparity as too great, questioning the competitiveness of such a match-up.
Unexpected Backlash from the Basketball Court
Adding a surprising twist to the drama, WNBA sensation Angel Reese has entered the fray. The Chicago Sky star took to social media to voice her strong disapproval, directly criticising the WBC's stance. Her involvement has catapulted the boxing debate into the mainstream sports conversation, attracting a new audience to the brewing storm.
Reese's comments have fuelled the fire, amplifying calls for the sanctioning body to prioritise meritocratic challenges within the division rather than facilitating what some are calling a 'money grab'.
A Clash of Titans or a Mismatch?
Terence Crawford, undefeated and a champion across multiple weight classes, is widely considered one of the planet's best pound-for-pound fighters. His credentials are impeccable. However, the prospect of facing Canelo, a natural super-middleweight with unparalleled power and experience at the weight, is seen by many as a step too far.
Critics argue that more deserving contenders like David Benavidez have earned their shot at Alvarez's crown through years of dominance in the weight class. The WBC's apparent willingness to bypass these established contenders for a high-profile, yet arguably ill-advised, super-fight has raised serious questions about the organisation's priorities.
As the debate rages on social media and beyond, the boxing community remains deeply divided. The WBC finds itself in the unusual position of defending its champion's choice of opponent, all while managing an unexpected PR crisis that now involves stars from outside the ring.
