“Hit him in the nuts!” Terence Crawford recalls sizing up 7-foot monster Shaquille O’Neal

Terence Crawford is undoubtedly one of the best pound-for-pound boxers in the world. The multi-divisional champion is the first male boxer in the four-belt era to become undisputed in two different weight classes. However, when it comes to facing the legendary Shaquille O’Neal, Crawford needs to be aware of his capabilities.

Crawford was recently on Shaquille O’Neal’s podcast where the pair talked about various topics. During the conversation, the undefeated boxer talked about sizing up O’Neal when they first met at an All-star basketball game. The boxer then hilariously talked about how he would face the basketball legend in a potential fight. 

At 5’8″, Crawford would face a significant size disadvantage against Shaquille O’Neal, who stands at 7 feet tall. Even with his reach, landing clean shots would be a challenge. On top of that, O’Neal has some MMA training, making this hypothetical showdown even tougher for Crawford.

Meanwhile, ‘Bud’ could just move around, and land body shots on the NBA legend in a boxing bout. O’Neal may not be faster in a boxing ruleset. However, things could drastically change in case the ruleset is mixed.

While Crawford is an extremely capable boxer, he knows how hard it is to fight against MMA fighters. In the past, the American boxer has talked about being scared of getting kicked in a cross promotion bout. However, when it comes to fighting boxing greats like Crawford is always ready.

Terence Crawford vs. Canelo Alvarez dream fight 

Terence Crawford is now targeting a highly anticipated mega fight against undisputed super middleweight champion Canelo Alvarez. As per reports, the fight is set to take place this September in Las Vegas. While there were initial doubts about the fight coming together, recent developments suggest it is now within reach.

This comes after Alvarez signed a multi-million dollar four fight deal with Turki Alalshikh. The Mexican champion is already scheduled for his next fight in May, and will prepare for the Crawford fight. In a recent interview, the Mexican superstar talked about how big this fight could be.

There are also rumors about Alalshikh’s friend and UFC CEO Dana White‘s new boxing promotion, that could host this blockbuster bout. White has planned to kickstart his promotion with a mega event and this fight ticks all the boxes. Despite their old rivalry, it would be interesting to see the Mexican superstar compete for White.

Can Terence Crawford beat Canelo Alvarez?

Terence Crawford’s undefeated record, elite skills, and two-time undisputed champion status make him a boxing pound-for-pound best. His dominance across weight classes, switch-hitting ability, and knockout power set him apart. His recent destruction of Errol Spence Jr. proved his greatness, cementing his place as the first undisputed welterweight champion in the four-belt era.

On paper Crawford could beat Canelo Alvarez with speed, precision, and elite footwork. But it’s important to remember the power and size advantage that the Mexican possess. Crawford’s fighting style and counterpunching could trouble the Super Middleweight. 

However, Canelo’s experience against elite fighters might neutralize Crawford’s technical advantages. On top of that, Alvarez’s body shots and pressure fighting could wear Crawford down. Crawford’s movement and adaptability would be key in avoiding Canelo’s power. If ‘Bud’ controls distance, he could win on points. 

But if the Mexican boxer lands clean, his power could decide the fight. It’s a close fight, but Alvarez’s size and durability might give him the edge. Nevertheless, only time will tell what would happen in the battle of these two giants.

Related: Canelo Alvarez nickname: What is the story behind the Mexican boxer’s nickname?

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