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Terence Crawford Announces Superfight Against Canelo Alvarez for September at T-Mobile Arena

Amanda Cross
Amanda Cross
Boxing Correspondent
7:49 AM
BOXING
Terence Crawford Announces Superfight Against Canelo Alvarez for September at T-Mobile Arena
The pound-for-pound kings have agreed to terms for the most anticipated boxing match of 2026, with both champions moving up in weight for the historic bout.

Boxing received the blockbuster announcement it has been waiting for as Terence Crawford and Canelo Alvarez officially confirmed their superfight for September 14th at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The bout, which will see Crawford move up two weight classes to challenge Canelo at super middleweight, represents the most significant crossover fight since Floyd Mayweather faced Manny Pacquiao in 2015.

Crawford, the undisputed welterweight champion who holds all four major title belts at 147 pounds, will be making a bold leap to 168 pounds to face the Mexican superstar. The 36-year-old Omaha native has long expressed his desire to become a champion in multiple weight divisions, and this fight represents the ultimate test of his skills and adaptability. "This is what legacy fights are made of," Crawford declared during today's press conference. "I've conquered welterweight, and now I want to prove I'm the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world by beating Canelo at his own weight."

Canelo, who has dominated the super middleweight division since 2020, welcomed the challenge while acknowledging Crawford's exceptional boxing ability. The 33-year-old from Guadalajara has faced criticism in recent years for his choice of opponents, making this fight a perfect opportunity to silence doubters. "Crawford is a great fighter, very technical, but I've been at this weight for years," Canelo stated. "The size advantage will be important, and I'm confident my power and experience at 168 pounds will be the difference."

The financial terms of the fight are staggering, with both fighters guaranteed a minimum of $40 million, while pay-per-view revenues could push their earnings well beyond $60 million each. Saudi Arabia's boxing advisors initially pursued the fight with an offer reportedly exceeding $200 million, but both fighters preferred the tradition and atmosphere of Las Vegas for such a significant bout. Premier Boxing Champions and Top Rank worked together to overcome years of promotional obstacles that had previously made this fight seem impossible.

The stylistic matchup promises boxing fans a technical masterpiece, with Crawford's switch-hitting ability and ring IQ facing Canelo's proven power and body punching expertise. Crawford's trainer BoMac Johnson expressed confidence in his fighter's ability to adapt to the weight increase, citing Crawford's natural frame and previous success moving up divisions. Meanwhile, Canelo's trainer Eddy Reynoso emphasized the importance of using size and strength advantages early in the fight.

Ticket sales begin Monday morning, with ringside seats expected to command premium prices exceeding $5,000. The undercard will feature several world title fights, including Gervonta Davis defending his lightweight championship and Ryan Garcia facing Devin Haney in a highly anticipated grudge match. T-Mobile Arena, which has hosted some of boxing's biggest events in recent years, is expected to generate over $20 million in gate revenue.

As both fighters begin their training camps, the boxing world will be watching closely to see how Crawford adapts to the significant weight increase and whether Canelo can maintain his dominance against arguably the most skilled opponent he has faced since Gennady Golovkin. The September 14th date gives both champions ample time to prepare for what promises to be a defining moment in both of their careers and a potential fight of the year candidate.

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