According to coach Andre Rozier, IBF/WBO middleweight titleholder Janibek Alimkhnuly could present a “more challenging contest” for Terence Crawford than Canelo Alvarez or any current fighter. He suggests that Janibek’s physical size, striking capability, and composure could pose difficulties for Crawford (42-0, 31 KOs).
Crawford, aged 38, achieved a victory over Canelo the prior month on September 13th, becoming an undisputed champion in three weight divisions. Since then, he’s implied a potential move to the 160-pound division to pursue a championship in that class.
Canelo: A Manageable Opponent
Considering that Alimkhanuly (17-0, 12 KOs) possesses two of the belts, he would be a sensible selection for Crawford, should he aspire to become an undisputed champion across four divisions. The challenge lies in Janibek being at the peak of his career, possessing strength, resilience, and not being an easy opponent unlike the declining Canelo that Crawford defeated.
Janibek: A Significant Obstacle at 160
“I honestly think he might be. I believe his stature, strength, and composure will present a problem,” trainer Andre Rozier informed YSM Sports Media when questioned about whether IBF and WBO middleweight champion Janibek Alimkhanuly could be a more demanding opponent for Terence Crawford than Canelo Alvarez or any other fighter.
The Cycle of Limited Activity
Crawford’s task might be complicated if he remains out of competition for a year, celebrating his victory and delaying his return until September or October 2026, when he will be 39 years of age. Attempting to overcome Janibek following a year of inactivity could be excessively difficult. Crawford’s recurring habit of competing only once each year might eventually affect him negatively.
“He’ll be right there with the best,” Rozier remarked regarding Crawford’s potential placement should he move down to 160 and become an undisputed champion in four divisions.
Rozier doesn’t specify what he means by stating he would place Crawford among “the very best” of all time. The statement is ambiguous. It might refer to the bottom 50, 100, or 150. Including him in the top four lacks rationale, given his unremarkable track record.
“My view is that the contests are of a different nature. My all-time favorite fighter is Sugar Ray Robinson,” Rozier expressed. “He was an extraordinary competitor. I doubt anyone will ever surpass his accomplishments. In the past, fighters had to struggle intensely. That is why he sometimes lost. These are different times.”
A Realistic Assessment of Boxing’s Elite
“Terence is definitely in contention. He needs to maximize his potential and select appropriate fights, manage his environment effectively, and he’s progressing towards the Hall of Fame,” Rozier stated regarding Crawford.
Crawford might be displeased that Rozier isn’t including him among the four figures on boxing’s Mount Rushmore. He has been asserting that he merits a spot in the top four of all time since defeating the past-his-prime Canelo Alvarez on September 13th.
Eddy Pronishev’s Candid Opinion
Greatest Boxers of All Time – Boxing’s Mount Rushmore
- Sugar Ray Robinson
- Muhammad Ali
- Joe Louis
- Henry Armstrong
Terence’s career record doesn’t compare to the achievements of legends like Sugar Ray Robinson (174-19-6, 109 KOs), Muhammad Ali, Joe Louis, or Sugar Ray Leonard. However, Crawford has been advocating for a top position, though he has cautiously avoided specifying which of the four he would replace.
Bud is likely cognizant of the criticism that would ensue if he were to position himself above Ali, Sugar Ray, Louis, or Armstrong. Given Crawford’s unsubstantial history, he would be ridiculed by fans for being unrealistic.
