Terence Crawford believes Richard Torrez Jr. could produce one of the standout performances on Saturday’s Usyk vs. Verhoeven undercard in Egypt. Torrez faces Frank Sanchez in an IBF heavyweight title eliminator at the Pyramids of Giza, with the winner moving closer to a future world title shot.
Sanchez brings more professional experience and owns a strong win over Efe Ajagba, but his 2024 stoppage loss to Agit Kabayel raised questions about whether he is still the same sharp, mobile heavyweight. Torrez, younger and still building as a professional, now has a major opportunity to prove he belongs at the top level.
Crawford, who knows Torrez’s new trainer Brian “BoMac” McIntyre better than most, expects the Olympic silver medallist to make a statement. “I’m happy to see Richard getting his just [desserts],” Crawford told Ring Magazine. “I wish him the best and I think he’s gonna shock a lot of people come Saturday.”
The fight is also Torrez’s first with BoMac in his corner, adding another layer of interest. McIntyre helped guide Crawford to undisputed success across multiple divisions, and now the question is whether that experience can help Torrez take the next step at heavyweight.
Torrez scored a wide points win over Guido Vianello in April 2025, but Sanchez represents his toughest test so far.