Canelo Alvarez and Terence Crawford are just weeks out from their blockbuster title fight in Las Vegas, but risks for both are completely altered, according to a former gold holder.
Set to duke it out for the undisputed super middleweight title, Canelo will welcome the undefeated Crawford to the division in a bid to retain his crown and hand the Nebraska striker his first loss.
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And despite the rise in weight class to take on the Jalisco star, Crawford has received both props for taking the fight, as well as words of warning from many in the boxing community.
But a former world champion claims Crawford is actually entering the pairing with Canelo in the better position before the opening bell sounds.
Chris Algieri breaks down Terence Crawford’s chances against Canelo Alvarez
Facing the biggest names of the welterweight limit during his time in the ring, former WBO light welterweight champion Chris Algieri has given his assessment on the pairing of Canelo and Crawford.
Battling the likes of Manny Pacquiao as well as Amir Khan during his career before his retirement four years ago, Algieri has more than enough authority to weigh in on the September super fight.
And as far as he can see, Crawford is entering the pairing with Canelo in a definite “win-win” situation due to his move in weight.
“The guy (Crawford) may do it [beat Canelo], and if he loses, I don’t really think it affects his legacy all that much,” Algieri told Fight Hub TV.
“All the accomplishments that he already has, Crawford. They’re not going to be forgotten. He’s jumping up two weight classes.
“I think it’s a win-win, loss-loss situation for these guys,” Algieri explained. “A win-win for Crawford, and a lose-lose for Canelo.
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“That’s a great point made by Crawford. That’s a good way to get under Canelo’s skin.”
And while Algieri has weighed in, another former-foe of Canelo has suggested a particular game plan the Mexican may utilize against Crawford.
John Ryder offers Canelo Alvarez game plan for Terence Crawford matchup
Sharing the ring with super middleweight champion four years ago, the retired John Ryder is the last fighter to face Canelo on enemy territory, traveling to Mexico in a unanimous decision loss.
Expecting a particular approach from Canelo against Crawford, Ryder suggested the defending champion will limit the time and space the challenger has to set up his own offense.
“I think you’re gonna see Canelo sitting tight on Crawford, not giving him space, block him side to side and just very much work up close. Don’t give Crawford the space to move, don’t give him the leverage to throw his long shots.
“…I think Canelo’s gotta sit tight on him, sit on his chest, good head movement, good slipping, good rolling, good catch-counters, and break him down.”