Canelo Alvarez warned about the risk of facing Terence Crawford

As Terence Crawford prepares for his 154-pound debut against WBA super welterweight champion Israil Madrimov at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles, there's growing speculation about a potential future matchup with Saul "Canelo" Alvarez. Crawford, who has been highly focused on his challenge, finds himself surrounded by discussions of a bout against Alvarez, one of boxing's biggest stars.

Brian 'BoMac' McIntyre, Crawford's trainer, believes that if a fight between Crawford and Alvarez materializes after their respective matches, Crawford might have the upper hand.

McIntyre argued that Crawford's high-level competition, including his current focus on Madrimov, keeps him in prime fighting rhythm. In contrast, Canelo is slated to face Edgar Berlanga, a fight McIntyre implies may not offer the same level of preparation.

"Canelo has been in the game long enough to know what he's doing," McIntyre commented, as reported by Sportskeeda.

"If [Crawford] does get Canelo right after the Madrimov fight, [Canelo] might just be in a little bit of trouble. Because [Crawford] has got that rhythm, he's into that rhythm, into his groove. It's a good thing for Terence."

Hearn's take

Eddie Hearn, president of Matchroom Boxing, offered a different perspective. He expressed concern that the buzz surrounding a potential Crawford vs. Canelo fight could distract Crawford from his immediate challenge against Madrimov.

Hearn emphasized that Crawford needs to concentrate fully on Madrimov, who he described as the hardest hitter Crawford will have faced.

"I've got to say, and I really mean this, I've got bad, bad feelings for Terence Crawford against Israil Madrimov. Because all I hear is Crawford-Canelo, Crawford-Boots, Crawford-this," Hearn itted.

"He is fighting the biggest puncher he's ever faced on August 3rd. I'm telling you now, if Crawford gets hit on the chin by Israil Madrimov, he is gonna really, really know about it."