For a long time, this was the fight Terence Crawford had been chasing. As 2025 rolled in, his long-awaited wish was granted. After much deliberation, Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez agreed to face him. Now, the two pound-for-pound best fighters in the world are set for a high-stakes showdown in Las Vegas this September. But the real challenge starts now.

Crawford may have secured the fight of his dreams, but it’s universally acknowledged that he faces a monumental task. Dethroning a regular champion is one thing; facing ‘Canelo’ Alvarez is another. Say what you will about the Mexican superstar, but few in the modern era have a resume that can match his. Moving through weight classes and taking on the toughest names in the sport, Alvarez has done it all. Over the years, his craft has evolved, making him one of the most complete fighters of his generation. His ring generalship, supreme defense, and devastating body shots have cemented his legacy. So, how does Crawford plan to take him down? What will be his game plan?

Terence Crawford’s plan for ‘Canelo’ Alvarez: Smart boxing

For one, Terence Crawford knows the odds. Climbing two weight divisions, he’s stepping into unfamiliar territory. The size disadvantage is real. But he believes he has the weapons to disrupt Alvarez’s rhythm. Crawford joined eminent sports journalist Manouk Akopyan for an exclusive interview. During the conversation, Akopyan asked, “Canelo’s been there with a lot of incredible opponents. He’s lasted 36 rounds with Triple G. He’s taken the power of light heavyweights Dmitry Bivol and Sergey Kovalev. How do you think you’re going to stop Canelo Alvarez?”

Crawford’s response was simple and direct. “I don’t got to stop him; I just got to beat him. I’m not going in there looking to knock Canelo out,” he said. His approach is clear. Outbox ‘Canelo,’ not overpower him. But if the opportunity for a knockout presents itself, he won’t hesitate to seize it.

Referring to the fact that ‘Canelo’ has moved up in weight classes over time, Crawford described the Mexican superstar as a ‘smaller, bigger guy.’ He pointed out that while bigger fighters might hit hard, they tend to be slower. So that gave ‘Canelo’ time to react. Crawford, on the other hand, comes from a lower weight class, where fighters are faster and sharper.

This, he believes, could give him the edge. Saying, “So if he gets hit with a sharp punch that he don’t see, he’s definitely capable of getting hurt,” Crawford questioned ‘Canelo’s’ invincibility and emphasized that he is human and can be hurt. “So I’m not going in there thinking, Oh, I can’t hurt this guy, but I’m not going in there at the same time I’m trying to knock him out. I’m trying to, you know, fight my fight, and if the knockout is there, then of course I’m going to take it.”

When conviction and tactics come together

Crawford’s confidence is echoed by his longtime trainer, Brian ‘BoMac’ McIntyre. “Listen, man, we’re going to win. We’re going to win. We’re going to win,” he said. The sheer size difference between his charge and ‘Canelo’ Alvarez doesn’t concern him. He added, “No, I’m not worried about size… Terence got a great eye at boxing and a great boxing IQ.”

Crawford’s belief in himself reads like a compelling story. But he’s stepping into unfamiliar terrain. Unlike Alvarez, he has never fought anyone significantly bigger than himself. And while ‘Canelo’s power is a major factor, his technical ability is just as impressive, arguably on par with Crawford’s, if not better.

Reports suggest that Crawford’s camp has brought in Lester Martinez as a sparring partner to simulate ‘Canelo’s size and style. It’s a crucial step in preparing for what is undoubtedly the biggest test of his career.

What do you think? Will Crawford’s speed and precision be enough to overcome ‘Canelo’s power and experience?