Things are looking up for the potential fight between Canelo Alvarez and Terence Crawford. Fans and experts alike have been wishing for this dream matchup for over a year. Now, Ring Magazine, recently acquired by Saudi Boxing Chief Turki Alalshikh, has revealed that the talks for their fight are gaining more momentum. 

Last month, reports revealed that Canelo and Crawford are in the final stages of finalizing a bout for September in Las Vegas. And now, Ring has reported that an agreement has been reached between the parties for the fight. Though a specific date has not come to light, Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas seems to be the venue for the fight. Nevertheless, the Mexican superstar looks to participate in one more fight before the blockbuster matchup against Crawford.

Canelo Alvarez may fight someone else before Crawford

Earlier today on X, Ring Magazine wrote, “Canelo Alvarez vs Terence Crawford now has an agreement in place for a September mega fight on a Riyadh Season card in Las Vegas.” This was followed by the Ring confirming the venue, writing, “Canelo Alvarez vs Terence Crawford will be held at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Nevada.”

The Riyadh Season event will be the first boxing card held at the 71,835-capacity stadium. Notably, fans may get to see both Terence Crawford and Canelo Alvarez in action before their anticipated September showdown, especially since Canelo typically fights twice a year. While May is often his preferred fight month, his opponent remains unconfirmed. 

Not to forget, the specific weight class for the Canelo-Crawford fight has yet to be confirmed, but super middleweight appears to be the most likely option. Regardless, despite the fight edging closer to reality, fan reactions have been far from celebratory. Instead of excitement, many took to the comment section to voice their frustrations with the potential matchup.

Fan brands potential fight money grab for Terence Crawford

While there was no shortage of people celebrating the news, it was alarming how many people weren’t on board with the fight. One user felt it was a fantasy bout and a simple money grab for Crawford. “This is a fantasy fight, a money grab for Crawford. I will definitely purchase this, but it’s not a good fight on paper from a logical standpoint,” the user wrote. However, legendary trainers like Teddy Atlas feel Terence Crawford is a different breed of boxer, and may end up winning the match. 

The next user could not see Terence Crawford winning the fight by any means. “Too small for Canelo,” the user wrote. Historically, boxers who have climbed weight classes have not faired well against Canelo. Crawford will have to do something special to change that. His technical brilliance could be the answer. 

Another user complained about Canelo fighting Crawford when David Benavidez should have been the one. “Fighting a welterweight when Benavidez was right there all this time,” the user wrote. Notably, Benavidez was Canelo’s mandatory for over a year, but WBC failed to put together a fight between them. Benavidez has now moved to light heavyweight, where he could fight the winner of Artur Beterbiev vs. Dmitry Bivol. 

Someone else gave props to Terence Crawford for his bravery, but couldn’t see Crawford beating Canelo. “Shout out to bud. Even [though] I think he going to sleep, I respect his confidence and self-belief,” the user commented. If Crawford hasn’t improved his game since the Israil Madrimov fight, his chances of winning are minuscule. 

One user wasn’t happy with the fight at all, asking Canelo to fight someone his own size. “Who cares? Make Clenelo fight someone his size, Beterbiev maybe?” the user wrote. However, Beterbiev is one division above Canelo.

Despite a large number of fans demanding a fight between Canelo Alvarez and Terence Crawford for over a year, the actual announcement has been met with mixed reactions. What do you think is causing the reaction?