Crawford's Historic Victory and Future Prospects
Terence Crawford's recent triumph over Canelo Alvarez on September 13, 2025, at Allegiant Stadium in Paradise, Nevada, marked a historic moment in boxing. Crawford dethroned the undisputed super middleweight champion by unanimous decision, becoming the first male fighter to win an undisputed title in three weight classes in the four-belt era. This victory, streamed worldwide on Netflix, has solidified his status as one of the sport's all-time greats, but it also raises the question of what's next for 'Bud' as he looks to further cement his legacy.
Despite the monumental win, discussions of a rematch with Alvarez have been minimal. Reports indicate that a second bout is unlikely, with Crawford expressing confidence in his dominance from the opening bell. As he celebrated turning 38 years old recently, speculation abounds regarding potential opponents who could challenge his skills and add to his storied career.
Six Fighters to Watch as Crawford's Next Opponents
With a rematch off the table, attention turns to other fighters who could test Crawford's abilities across different weight classes. One prominent name is Dmitry Bivol, a light heavyweight champion known for his technical prowess. A bout with Bivol would pit Crawford against a formidable opponent with a strong defensive style, potentially pushing him to adapt in new ways at a higher weight class.
David Benavidez, another super middleweight contender, is also frequently mentioned. Known for his power and relentless pressure, Benavidez could provide a stern test at 168 pounds. Additionally, Carlos Adames, the middleweight titleholder, has been floated as a potential opponent, with some fans on social media platforms suggesting a fight in Omaha could lead to a shot at becoming a four-division undisputed champion.
Other names in the mix include Hamzah Sheeraz, an up-and-coming middleweight with an impressive record, as well as Artur Beterbiev, another light heavyweight powerhouse. Fighters like Vergil Ortiz Jr., though doubted by some promoters like Turki Alalshikh as a likely matchup, remain part of the broader conversation. Each of these contenders brings unique strengths that could challenge Crawford's adaptability and skill set.
The Road Ahead for Boxing's Elite
As Crawford contemplates his next move, the boxing world watches eagerly. His historic performance against Alvarez has not only elevated his profile but also opened doors to blockbuster fights that could define his legacy further. However, having been stripped of his WBA super welterweight title just days after the Alvarez fight due to divisional regulations, Crawford faces decisions about whether to stay at 168 pounds or explore other weight classes.
Dana White, who promoted the Alvarez-Crawford event under Zuffa Boxing, described the event as 'close to flawless,' highlighting its success at Allegiant Stadium. With such high-profile backing and global interest, Crawford's next fight—whether against Bivol, Benavidez, or another contender—promises to be a major spectacle. The path he chooses will undoubtedly shape discussions about his place among boxing's legends for years to come.