Terence Crawford unveiled his significantly enhanced physical form through an image shared on Instagram earlier today, giving a glimpse into his expected appearance when he faces Canelo Alvarez for the title of undisputed super middleweight champion on the fifteenth of September.
Crawford (41-0, 31 KOs) seems to have prioritized muscle gain over boxing-specific training. This approach might prove disadvantageous, considering the necessity of carrying the added weight accumulated over the past year when confronting Canelo (63-2-2, 39 KOs).
Could Added Mass Impair Crawford’s Agility?
The increased weight load has the potential to diminish Crawford’s stamina, causing him to fatigue later in the bout or even prematurely. His enhanced size was already evident in his recent match against Israil Madrimov on the fifth of August, 2024.
Notably, in that contest, despite his larger frame, Crawford exhibited unusual prudence and reluctance in his attacks, seemingly cautious of Madrimov’s counter-punching abilities. If concern over his own striking power was present then, it’s likely to intensify against Canelo, known for delivering more forceful blows than Madrimov. Moreover, the threat extends beyond mere right-hand punches.
“He’s someone who can easily add muscle and utilize his hand speed to box,” stated Tom Loeffler of 360 Promotions to Fighthype, discussing the physique transformation Terence Crawford has undergone for his upcoming fight with Canelo Alvarez.
Crawford looking JACKED at 168. Man, he’s put on muscle for sure. Will be interesting to see:
• If his speed is affected – I felt that was a HUGE advantage in this fight
• If he’s able to push Canelo back – Punches will get Alvarez respect; Crawford is freaky strong – has… pic.twitter.com/B7IE3PuxGq
— Marcos Villegas (@heyitsmarcosv) September 5, 2025
Canelo’s Tactical Advantage with Body Shots
“If Canelo manages to assert his dominance and land impactful shots to the body, I anticipate him securing a narrow victory on that particular night. His expertise in body punching,” Loeffler remarked, highlighting a key area of concern for Crawford regarding Canelo’s capabilities. “Either counter-punching to the head or delivering potent left hooks to the body, which are quite effective. He can gradually wear down his opponents. That’s a key aspect for Crawford to be wary of. Those challenging body shots that Canelo executes.”
The strategic employment of left hooks to the body by Canelo could prove detrimental to Crawford, given his limited exposure to body-punching specialists in recent memory. The last notable body puncher Crawford encountered was Jose Benavidez Jr. on the eleventh of October, 2018. That encounter occurred some time ago, and Benavidez’s skill level did not match that of Canelo.
“Canelo has never experienced a knockout defeat, but he will achieve victory against Terence Crawford. By one method or another,” declared Lester Martinez, a super middleweight contender, in his prediction to Fight Hub TV, foreseeing a triumph for Crawford.
