Canelo Alvarez vs Terence Crawford: The Complications of a Potential Superfight

In the complex landscape of boxing, where negotiations and timelines often overlap in a web of strategy and ambition, the potential bout between Terence Crawford and Canelo Alvarez has taken a new turn. The World Boxing Organisation (WBO) has ordered a junior middleweight title consolidation fight between Crawford and Sebastian Fundora, a decision that complicates Crawford’s pursuit of a high-profile showdown with Alvarez.

WBO Order Adds Urgency to Crawford-Fundora Negotiations

The WBO’s mandate for a fight between Terence Crawford and Sebastian Fundora, issued in a recent directive, has set a 30-day deadline for the fighters to reach an agreement. This order is crucial, as failure to do so will trigger a purse bid. “Please be advised that the parties herein have thirty (30) days upon issuance… to reach an agreement,” WBO Championship Committee Chairman Luis Batista-Salas stated. “If an accord is not reached within the timeframe stated herein, a purse bid will be ordered.”

Sampson Lewkowicz, Fundora’s promoter, has expressed scepticism about the feasibility of finalising this bout within the given timeframe. Lewkowicz suggested that the deadline is effectively shorter than it appears. “I’m waiting on an offer now, and I’m certain one will not come until after the 14th,” Lewkowicz said. He speculates that Crawford is holding out for a more lucrative fight with Alvarez, whose immediate focus is on defending his super-middleweight titles against Edgar Berlanga on September 14.

Alvarez’s Position: Not Dismissing the Crawford Fight

Despite the WBO’s order, Canelo Alvarez has not dismissed the idea of a future fight with Crawford. Alvarez, while acknowledging the current order, indicated that it does not necessarily preclude a future bout with Crawford. “I don’t think so,”  Alvarez told BoxingScene. “I’m not saying that fight can’t happen. That order doesn’t matter.” This statement leaves room for speculation and hope among boxing fans that a match between Alvarez and Crawford could still be on the horizon, despite the current contractual and promotional obstacles.

Negotiation Challenges and Financial Implications

The negotiation process for the Crawford-Fundora fight is further complicated by the differing promotional arrangements of the fighters. Crawford, represented by attorney Harrison Whitman and financially supported by Saudi investor Turki Alalshikh, contrasts sharply with Fundora’s association with Sampson Boxing and Premier Boxing Champions (PBC). Lewkowicz’s desire to keep the fight in the U.S. and his insistence on a fair purse split highlight the financial and logistical hurdles in play.

Lewkowicz’s comments reveal the stakes involved. “If [Crawford] fights the way he fought [August 3], he has no shot – he will get knocked out by Fundora,” he said, referring to Crawford’s narrow victory over Israil Madrimov. “It can’t be 80-20 [in Crawford’s favor],” he added, indicating his frustration with the potential purse split. Lewkowicz’s insistence on a fair share underscores the contentious nature of the negotiations and the broader implications for both fighters’ careers.

Bigger Picture: Crawford’s Ambitions and Fundora’s Resolve

Crawford’s pursuit of a fight with Alvarez represents a significant potential payday and career milestone. However, the immediate focus on Fundora’s challenge illustrates the balancing act Crawford must navigate. As he awaits the outcome of Alvarez’s fight against Berlanga, Crawford’s options are constrained by the WBO’s ruling and Fundora’s readiness to compete.

Fundora’s promoter remains hopeful that the fight will happen if the financial terms are right. “We are willing to face him,” Lewkowicz said, reflecting Fundora’s willingness to take on Crawford despite the complicated circumstances. The potential for a high-profile bout remains, but the path to it is fraught with negotiation and timing challenges.