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In a stunning matchup at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Terence Crawford made history by defeating Saul “Canelo” Alvarez by unanimous decision. This victory crowned him the undisputed super middleweight champion and marked him as the first male boxer to secure three unified division titles.
With over 70,000 fans in attendance and millions watching on Netflix, the fight showcased a masterclass in technique and determination.
The Fight: A Display of Skill and Strategy
Crawford established dominance early, showcasing remarkable hand speed and footwork that effectively kept Alvarez at a distance.
The judges scored the match 116-112, 115-113, and 115-113, highlighting Crawford’s tactical superiority throughout the 12 rounds. “I’m not here by coincidence,” Crawford stated after the fight, acknowledging Alvarez’s skill while emphasizing his own relentless pursuit of excellence.
This bout transcended titles; it underscored Crawford’s commitment to greatness.
Having previously held undisputed titles at light welterweight and welterweight, Crawford moved up two weight classes for this contest, weighing in at a career-high 167.5 pounds. Despite the weight increase, Crawford’s agility shone through as he navigated the ring, skillfully countering Alvarez’s attacks with a strategic blend of offense and defense.
A Clash of Champions: The Fine Line Between Victory and Defeat
The match was a true spectacle, with both fighters exchanging powerful blows. Alvarez, renowned for his knockout power, found himself outboxed for significant portions of the fight. Although he landed some body shots early on, Crawford’s dominance forced Alvarez into a position of having to adapt and take risks in pursuit of a knockout that ultimately remained elusive.
As Crawford continued to deliver precise combinations, he displayed an impressive capacity to absorb punches while maintaining a solid defensive stance.
For Alvarez, despite the defeat, there was a sense of pride. “I’m a winner for being here,” he remarked, underscoring the risks he embraced in the ring.
His legacy in boxing is firmly established, and he remains committed to competing against top-tier opponents, expressing a willingness to engage in a rematch should the opportunity arise.
Impact on Boxing and the Future
The implications of this fight extend far beyond the ring. It shattered attendance records in Las Vegas, previously held since 1982, and signaled a pivotal moment in the evolution of boxing as it aired on Netflix instead of through traditional pay-per-view channels. This shift may indicate a new direction for boxing promotions, aiming for broader accessibility and enhanced viewer engagement.
Furthermore, with UFC President Dana White now involved in boxing promotions, speculation arises that this could set a precedent for future events, potentially elevating boxing’s profile in the competitive sports landscape. The collaboration with Riyadh Season for this event highlights a blending of combat sports that could attract diverse audiences.
As attention shifts from this historic night, all eyes are on Crawford as he considers his next steps. With an unblemished record of 42-0, including 31 knockouts, the boxing community eagerly anticipates the challenges that await this newly crowned champion.
