Speculation is rife in the boxing world as ESPN’s Salvador Rodriguez recently hinted at a potential matchup between Canelo Alvarez, the sport’s biggest star, and Jermall Charlo followed by Terrence Crawford in 2024. While this news has sparked excitement among boxing enthusiasts, it raises questions about the rationale behind these choices. Furthermore, the looming challenge of David Benavidez cannot be overlooked, as he presents a formidable opponent for Canelo at super middleweight. Let’s delve into the possibilities and implications surrounding these potential matchups.
Jermall Charlo, the current middleweight titlist, has proven himself both inside and outside the ring, maintaining an undefeated professional record. His popularity and reputation in the sport make him an attractive opponent for Canelo. On the other hand, Terrence Crawford has solidified his position as one of the best boxers globally after his triumph over Errol Spence Jr. to claim the undisputed welterweight championship. With this in mind, it is not surprising that experts consider Crawford to be the reigning boxing sensation.
Amid the buzz surrounding Charlo and Crawford, it is crucial not to dismiss the potential threat posed by David Benavidez. As a super middleweight, Benavidez is already within the weight class of Canelo, setting the stage for an intriguing matchup. Additionally, the young and undefeated Benavidez brings strength and vigor to the ring, making him a formidable contender. Despite his credentials, Benavidez is not the obvious choice for Canelo, who is at a stage in his career where he can handpick his opponents carefully.
Charlo, although having fought just once at super middleweight, may have to meet Canelo at a catchweight, given the weight difference between the two fighters. Similarly, Crawford, a welterweight, is expected to move up to junior middleweight. Should their paths cross, a catchweight arrangement would likely be necessary. In contrast, Benavidez’s position within the super middleweight division makes a match with Canelo more feasible in terms of weight requirements.
Considering Canelo’s status as one of the sport’s most accomplished and revered fighters, he would undeniably enter any of these potential matchups as the favorite. However, the degree of favoritism might differ depending on the opponent. Charlo and Crawford, while formidable adversaries, may fall slightly behind Benavidez in terms of posing a significant challenge to Canelo’s supremacy. Nevertheless, such favoritism does not diminish the potential excitement and intrigue that these matchups would generate among fans.
It is crucial to remember that Rodriguez’s statement merely suggests the possibility of Canelo facing Charlo and Crawford in the future. Both matchups are far from guaranteed, as it remains uncertain whether the fighters themselves would be willing to take on such a formidable opponent as Canelo. In the case of Crawford, who is significantly smaller in stature, the inclination to engage in such a high-stakes encounter may be diminished, especially when considering his already established position in the sport. Ultimately, Canelo’s choice of opponents will be a reflection of his standing and popularity within the boxing community.
The potential matchups between Canelo Alvarez, Jermall Charlo, Terrence Crawford, and David Benavidez leave boxing enthusiasts buzzing with excitement. While Charlo and Crawford possess their own strengths and accomplishments, Benavidez presents a unique challenge within Canelo’s weight class. The weight class dynamics and Canelo’s favored status in any of these bouts further add to the anticipation. Nonetheless, it is important to keep in mind that the actual realization of these matchups is far from certain and depends on various factors, including the fighters’ willingness to step into the ring with Canelo. Whatever the future holds, the boxing world eagerly awaits the next chapter in Canelo Alvarez’s illustrious career.
Leave a Reply