Terence Crawford steals the show and dethrones Canelo Álvarez

What happened in Las Vegas was not just another boxing match: it was a restructuring of the sporting landscape. With more than 70,000 fans filling Allegiant Stadium, Canelo Álvarez seemed destined to crown another glorious night on Mexico's Independence Day weekend. However, Terence “Bud” Crawford moved up two weight classes and delivered such a brilliant performance that he turned the event into his own coronation.

Dominance from start to finish

From the first round, Crawford imposed his style. With guard changes, lateral movements, and a surgical jab, he began to neutralize Canelo's attack. The Mexican, known for his precision and power, was forced to chase an opponent who was always one step ahead. The sixth round was the turning point, when Crawford planted his feet, landed clean combinations, and began to mark Álvarez's face, who looked increasingly frustrated.

The judges saw it as a close fight, but for many analysts, Crawford's superiority was more pronounced. Canelo, who had dominated the 168-pound division for years, looked slow, with few strategic responses and limited to solo attacks.

The atmosphere changed completely.

What started as a Mexican party turned into a spectacle of collective amazement. The cheers for Canelo faded as those for Crawford grew louder with each exchange won by the American. When the final bell rang, the crowd knew they had witnessed something impressive.

An event that redefines boxing

In addition to the sporting aspect, this evening was historic for its broadcast, eliminating the traditional pay-per-view model and reaching unprecedented global audiences. It also marked Dana White's debut in professional boxing with Zuffa Boxing, in collaboration with Riyadh Season. This business model could change the way fights are marketed from now on.

Reactions and legacy

“Tonight was mine,” said an emotional Crawford, who now has an undefeated record of 42-0. Canelo graciously acknowledged defeat: “I've taken risks my entire career. Today I lost, but I'm still here.”

Crawford, now a three-time undisputed champion, has secured his place in the conversation of the greatest pound-for-pound fighters of all time. What he did against Canelo was not just a victory: it was a statement of greatness.