Crawford’s Perspective on Canelo’s Benavidez Avoidance
Terence Crawford, the undefeated boxing champion with an impressive record of 41-0 and 31 knockouts, has offered his insights on why Canelo Alvarez (62-2-2, 39 KOs) has avoided a fight with David Benavidez. Crawford believes that Canelo’s reluctance isn’t rooted in any perceived lack of skill or fear of defeat. Instead, Crawford suggests that Canelo has been particularly sensitive to Benavidez’s disrespectful remarks, which Crawford characterizes as being more personal due to their shared Mexican heritage. Crawford acknowledges that Benavidez is not from Mexico but is of American heritage with mixed Ecuadorian and Mexican roots. This nuance, however, doesn’t detract from Crawford’s core argument: Canelo took Benavidez’s remarks more personally because they came from someone he considers a cultural peer.
Fans’ Skepticism and Canelo’s History
Despite Crawford’s explanation, many fans remain skeptical. They see Canelo’s avoidance of Benavidez as a strategic move to dodge a potentially dangerous opponent who could beat him and even knock him out. Fans point to Canelo’s decision to fight Dmitry Bivol at 175 pounds instead of facing Artur Beterbiev, who was the clear champion at the time. This choice seems to align with a pattern of avoiding tougher opponents, which further fuels the belief that Canelo is wary of Benavidez.
Crawford’s Stake in the Matter
Crawford’s positive spin on Canelo’s decision not to face Benavidez is understandable given his own career trajectory. Crawford is currently in line to face Canelo on September 13th, a fight that could be a significant payday and a defining moment in his career. It’s in Crawford’s best interest to stay on Canelo’s good side to ensure the fight goes on. The financial and professional stakes are high, and a potential fallout with Canelo could leave Crawford without this lucrative opportunity. The fight with Canelo would not only offer Crawford the chance to add another major title to his resume but also secure him a substantial financial reward, often referred to as "retirement money."
Canelo’s Track Record of Facing Disrespectful Opponents
Crawford’s defense of Canelo is not entirely without merit. He points out that Canelo has a history of facing opponents who have disrespected him. From Shane Mosley to Alfredo Angulo, Erislandy Lara, Danny Jacobs, and Billy Joe Saunders, Canelo has consistently stepped into the ring with fighters who have criticized him. This track record suggests that Canelo does not typically shy away from challenges or personal jabs. Crawford argues that the key difference with Benavidez lies in the personal and cultural animosity, which Canelo found particularly galling.
The Cultural Angle
Crawford’s assertion that Canelo’s reluctance is rooted in a cultural sensitivity adds a unique dimension to the discussion. He believes that when two fighters share a cultural background, particularly one as significant as Mexican heritage, personal attacks carry more weight. Crawford suggests that Canelo viewed Benavidez’s disrespectful remarks as a betrayal of their shared roots, making it more difficult for him to overlook the provocations. This personal affront, according to Crawford, has influenced Canelo’s decision more than any strategic or professional considerations.
Awaiting the September Showdown
As the boxing world awaits the much-anticipated fight between Crawford and Canelo on September 13th, the debate over Canelo’s avoidance of Benavidez continues to simmer. Crawford’s explanation provides a nuanced perspective, but it remains to be seen whether it will sway public opinion. For Crawford, the focus now is on preparing for the fight of his life, a match that could cement his legacy and secure his financial future. The outcome of this bout will not only be a testament to their skills in the ring but also a test of the personal and cultural dynamics that Crawford has highlighted.
