"Canelo-Crawford isn’t as close as people think"

With fight night approaching in Las Vegas, Vergil Ortiz has weighed in on the debate surrounding the blockbuster showdown between Saul “Canelo” Alvarez and Terence Crawford. The unbeaten Texan believes the matchup isn’t as evenly balanced as many suggest, pointing to size and experience as decisive factors.

“Competitive fight. I don't see Crawford winning,” Ortiz said. “Solely based off of the fact that Canelo is just bigger. Do I think Crawford can beat some of the super middleweights out there? Yeah, for sure. But he's not fighting some random 168. He’s fighting Canelo who has not only the strength and the size, but he has IQ, experience and speed.”

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Crawford, already a two-time undisputed champion at 140lbs and 147lbs and a titleholder at 154lbs, now jumps two weight classes to challenge Alvarez for the super middleweight crown. Ortiz, who once pursued Crawford at welterweight, acknowledged Crawford’s skills but argued the gulf in size cannot be overlooked. “People are underestimating the skill of Canelo but also the size difference… I just think it’s not as close as what people think.”

Ortiz also cast doubt on Crawford’s future in the sport, suggesting Saturday may mark the end of his career. “If I was a two-time undisputed champion and I fought Canelo for a third undisputed and win or lose I’m done. Just get out of the sport healthy with money paid and live life.”

Meanwhile, Alvarez has added Ortiz’s 154lb rival, Jaron “Boots” Ennis, to his camp for sparring. Ortiz welcomed the move, calling it “cool” and an opportunity for Canelo to sharpen against one of the best. As the anticipation builds, Ortiz’s verdict adds another voice to a debate that has split the boxing world.