Terence Crawford's emotional victory over Canelo Alvarez wasn't just a win; it was a testament to unwavering dedication and a quiet dominance that finally silenced his doubters. In a clash of styles before a roaring 70,000-strong crowd in Las Vegas and millions watching on Netflix, Crawford proved that methodical precision can overcome raw power. His victory, a hard-fought points decision, marked the culmination of a career spent patiently honing his skills, often overshadowed by flashier, more commercially viable opponents.
For years, Crawford, the unassuming craftsman from Omaha, navigated the complexities of the boxing world. He unified titles at 140 and 147 pounds, even delivering a dominant performance against Errol Spence Jr. Yet, persistent criticism lingered. His opponents were often dismissed as less-than-elite, and his association with Top Rank arguably limited his exposure to marquee matchups. Even Alvarez himself questioned the quality of Crawford's competition in the lead-up to their highly anticipated fight.
But on that unforgettable night, Crawford answered those criticisms emphatically. He moved up two weight classes to challenge Alvarez, a four-weight world champion entrenched at super-middleweight for years. Initially employing a calculated, strategic approach, Crawford carefully probed Alvarez's defenses with his southpaw jab. Then, around the sixth round, he shifted gears, seizing control of the fight with a display of superior boxing acumen. Alvarez, the typically aggressive champion, found himself chasing shadows, unable to penetrate Crawford's masterful defense.
Crawford's victory cemented his place among boxing's all-time greats. He's now one of only six fighters to win world titles across five weight divisions, joining an exclusive club that includes legends like Thomas Hearns, Sugar Ray Leonard, Oscar De La Hoya, Floyd Mayweather Jr., and Manny Pacquiao. His accomplishment transcends mere statistics; it's a testament to his relentless pursuit of excellence.
The significance of Crawford's win extends beyond the impressive record. It's a story about perseverance in a sport often obsessed with hype. Crawford, known for his quiet demeanor and aversion to theatrics, chose to let his skill do the talking. In a world that prioritizes spectacle, his victory was a powerful statement: consistent excellence eventually finds its reward. The tears he shed after the decision weren't just tears of joy, but tears of vindication, confirming the wisdom of his unwavering belief in his own approach.
Crawford's win was a masterclass in timing, precision, and discipline. It wasn't a brutal slugfest, but a carefully orchestrated display of boxing brilliance. His victory demonstrates that greatness can be quietly cultivated, patiently refined, and ultimately, undeniably triumphant. The boy from Omaha, who once survived a gunshot wound, had finally climbed his highest peak, proving that sometimes, the most enduring victory is a victory of substance over style.
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Originally published at: https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2025/sep/14/terence-crawford-canelo-alvarez-boxing-las-vegas
