The Battle of the Year: Crawford vs. Canelo, a Historic Event in Boxing
Carl Washington, Terence Crawford’s trainer, predicts an epic showdown, possibly the last of its kind. He refers to Crawford as “Bud” and highlights the importance of this fight, which the boxer has sought for years to prove his greatness against Saúl “Canelo” Álvarez, the current face of the sport.Washington, owner of a boxing gym in Omaha, has known Crawford since his childhood. He remembers “Bud’s” determination from a young age, even with tears of frustration in his first fight. Washington predicted his future as a world champion, and the CW Boxing Club gym is where it all began. Crawford’s career was hampered by boxing politics, but now, at 37, he has the opportunity to participate in the fight he always hoped for. Washington built a “historic wall” in his gym, displaying photos and clippings of Crawford from his beginnings, to demonstrate what is possible. The oldest photo of Crawford shows him with gloves that are too big, but with an intense look.In the lead-up to the fight, Canelo Álvarez appears calm and focused at the UFC GYM in Reno, Nevada. Three weeks before the fight, Canelo is aware of the magnitude of the event, which is projected to be the most-watched of his career. His success as a global brand assures him of immense fortune, and the fight with Crawford represents a crucial challenge. Canelo prepares meticulously, avoiding risks that could compromise the fight. The match, which is advertised as “The Fight of the Century”, represents a millionaire income and one of the last great challenges in his career.The fight between Canelo and Crawford has a historical context, similar to the fight between Jack Johnson and Jim Jeffries in 1910 in Reno. This sporting event was marked by racial tension and the struggle for power in a time of great social change. Johnson’s victory triggered racial riots across the country.Henry R. Luce, co-founder of Time and Life magazines, promoted the “American Century” through his media empire. For Luce, the United States should lead the world with ideals such as economic determinism and humanitarian aid. In this context, boxing and figures like Joe Louis, the second heavyweight world champion, became symbols of the era.Boxing, a sport of sacrifice and dreams, faces harsh realities. John “Juanito” Ornelas, hoping to fight on the Canelo-Crawford card, saw his opportunity cut short. Despite his dedication and hard work, he was replaced, losing the opportunity of a lifetime. In the world of boxing, technological advancement has always gone hand in hand with the dissemination of major fights. From cinema to radio, television and pay-per-view, each innovation has changed the way events are consumed. Now, with Canelo, streaming becomes the new stage, with a $365 million contract with DAZN.In the main event, the anticipation before the first bell is palpable. Months of preparation and promotion culminate in the confrontation between Crawford and Canelo. The fight comes down to two men, and in the intermediate rounds, the boxers realize the true capabilities of their opponent.“I said to him: ‘Do you know what your dream fight would be?’ Canelo. Then you and your grandchildren can retire”.
Carl Washington
