In the lead up to one of the year’s most anticipated boxing matches between Terence Crawford and Errol Spence Jr. on July 29th at the T-Mobile Arena, former professional boxer and current ESPN analyst Tim Bradley voices concerns over Crawford’s prospects. According to Bradley, Crawford, despite being a remarkable boxer, might not clinch a decision in Las Vegas due to a recent shift in judging dynamics that favor high-volume punchers over defensive stylists. This shift is especially significant as Spence, the IBF, WBA, and WBC welterweight champion, is known for his relentless attack, always pressuring his opponents with a flurry of punches.

Bradley’s concerns stem from Crawford’s typically slow-paced start in his fights, often spending the initial rounds downloading information about his opponents. While this tactic has been fruitful for Crawford thus far due to mediocre opposition, Bradley warns that employing the same strategy against a proficient boxer like Spence may backfire. Spence’s quick out-of-the-gate approach and consistent offense could quickly put Crawford behind on scorecards, forcing him into a difficult position of requiring a knockout to win.

A potential game-changer could be Crawford breaking away from his characteristic laid-back initial rounds and matching Spence's output. Bradley and Max Kellerman, another analyst, both agree that if Crawford does not want to dig an early hole, he needs to refrain from his habit of starting slow. While Spence is known for his iron chin and high-pressure approach, Crawford’s versatility and ability to adapt may provide him with an edge, as long as he capitalizes on it from the get-go.

With the recent shift in Vegas judging that appreciates aggressive boxing, the onus is now on Crawford to up his game and match the high-volume punchers’ intensity. His usual strategy of making up for early rounds in the second half of the fight may not suffice against a fighter like Spence. All eyes will be on the T-Mobile Arena on July 29th to see if Crawford adapts his tactics and if he can prove Bradley's concerns unfounded.

Image Credit: ESPN