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Jul 30 2023

'A rematch at 154 lbs' - said Spence during the post fight presser of Spence vs Crawford

In a one-sided Spence vs Crawford bout, Errol Spence Jr faced his first defeat at the hands of Terence Crawford, who dominated the fight and claimed the undisputed welterweight championship with a ninth-round stoppage. Spence (28-1, 22 KO) stated his desire for a rematch at the super welterweight limit of 154 pounds during the post-fight presser. He did, however, agree that at the end Crawford will decide as he is the winner of their fight. Spence intimated that if the rematch takes place at the welterweight limit of 147 pounds, he might not consent to it. He accepted the loss with grace, giving full credit to Crawford for his performance. Spence admitted that he had an off-night, and Crawford was the better fighter that evening. He recognized that his timing was off, which prevented him from capitalizing on certain opportunities. Regarding the potential rematch, Spence mentioned that he would discuss it with his management, but his preference lies in competing at 154 lbs. He acknowledged the difficulty of cutting weight to make 147 lbs but refrained from making excuses for the loss. He commended Crawford's power but attributed some of his difficulties to his own mistimed shots.
“It’s something I’ve got to talk to my management about, but hopefully it’s at 154. ... (The weight cut) is always difficult, but I don’t make any excuses. The better man won tonight.”
Despite some swelling, Spence stated that he didn't experience any vision problems during the fight. He felt physically capable and believed he could do enough to win, but Crawford's superior performance proved otherwise. Looking ahead, Spence expressed determination and resilience. He stated that he wouldn't dwell on the loss and would move forward to improve and grow as a fighter. He remained open to a rematch with Crawford and found solace in delivering an exciting fight to the boxing public. Spence acknowledged that he didn't perform at his best and believes he is much better than what he showed in the ring that night. He credited Crawford for being sharp and prepared, acknowledging the champion's 100 percent readiness for the fight. When asked about his thoughts after the second-round knockdown, Spence humorously remarked that his mindset was simply to fight back and defend himself. He expressed respect for Crawford's sportsmanship, with the latter praising him after the fight.

“Nothing really surprised me. He’s just like I thought. My timing wasn’t good today.

“I felt a little off physically, but most times I get through it. I thought it was going to be like the other times, but I couldn’t kick it up a notch.

“I got a feel for his power in probably the first or second round. He’s a strong dude, but everybody at the top level has some type of power. I think because my timing was off, he was catching me in between shots.

“No. I didn’t have any difficulty seeing at all.

“I felt cool. I felt I could do enough to win the fight. I felt good, like I said I’m not here to make any excuses. I’m a grown man. I agreed to the weight and to get down to it, and that’s what I did. No excuses. Hats off to the champion tonight.

“I’m not gonna stew over it at all. I did what I was supposed to do, regardless of the outcome. I promised everybody I was going to do it and I did it as a man. I’m not gonna sulk over this, I’ll get right back and get to it, hopefully at 154 lbs.

“Definitely. It was exciting. It’s something that I wouldn’t change for nothing. I’m definitely open to the rematch, and hopefully it’ll be at 154 lbs.

“I know I’m a lot better than what I showed tonight. I know that a lot of things were off with me. Even though Terence did what he was supposed to, he was sharp and he was on-point, and he made sure he was 100 percent ready in this fight.

“He just told me to keep my head up, I was off. He was trying to console me like he’s supposed to.

“Shit, uh, just fight back, I mean [laughing] — I mean, what you mean what was going through my mind? It’s a boxing match, so I was trying to block the shots he was throwing and come back with shots. Nothing really was going through my mind. Just the same stuff.

“He just said good fight, much respect, and that’s about it.”

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Jul 30 2023

'We've got to do it again' - says Spence during the post fight interview of Spence vs Crawford

Terence Crawford delivered an outstanding performance against Errol Spence Jr in Spence vs Crawford at Las Vegas, securing the undisputed welterweight championship in a dominant display. In the ninth round, Crawford unleashed a flurry of punches that left Spence wobbling, prompting the referee to step in and stop the fight. In the Spence vs Crawford, Crawford scored three knockdowns, the first of which came in just the second round, with the next two occurring in Round 7. Despite Spence's bravery throughout the bout, Crawford's skill and superiority were evident, leaving his opponent with little chance to turn the tide. After the fight, Crawford showed respect to Spence and expressed his willingness for a rematch, acknowledging the support from fans for both fighters.
“It was a good stoppage. I was on the verge. The referee did what he was supposed to do to protect the fighter. “If the fight happens again I am pretty sure the support will come out again for both of us.”
Spence also expressed his openness to a rematch, believing he could perform better in a second encounter.
“We've got to do it again. I would be a lot better.”
With the victory, Crawford not only added the WBC, WBA, and IBF titles to his existing WBO belt but also extended his knockout streak to 11 matches, making it the second-longest active stretch. At 35 years old, Crawford has already achieved success in multiple weight divisions, having won titles in super lightweight and lightweight before moving up to welterweight in 2018. He became the first male boxer to achieve undisputed champion status in two divisions during the four-belt era. Reflecting on his journey, Crawford shared that he had once only dreamed of becoming a world champion. He overcame skepticism during his rise but has since proven himself as a remarkable athlete.
“I only dreamed of being a world champion. I’m an over-achiever. Nobody believed in me when I was coming up, but I made everybody a believer. I want to thank Spence and his team because without him none of this would have been possible.”
Spence admitted that Crawford was the better fighter that night, commending his opponent's powerful jab and impeccable timing.
“He was just better tonight,” Spence said. “I make no excuses. He was throwing a harder jab. He was timing with his jab, and he had his timing down on point.”
The Spence vs Crawford event drew a star-studded crowd, with notable personalities like Cardi B, Andre 3000, Mark Walhberg, Damian Lillard, and Jerry Jones in attendance. Boxing legends such as Mike Tyson, Evander Holyfield, Floyd Mayweather Jr., and Manny Pacquiao also graced the occasion. As Crawford made his entrance to the ring, Eminem's song "Lose Yourself" played, setting the stage for an electrifying showdown in front of a sold-out crowd of 19,990 at T-Mobile Arena. Terence Crawford's victory in Las Vegas marks a historic moment in boxing, solidifying his place as one of the sport's great champions. The welterweight division now recognizes him as the undisputed king, and fans eagerly anticipate the next chapter in his illustrious career.
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Jul 30 2023

Terence "Bud" Crawford Stops Errol Spence Jr- Spence vs Crawford!!!

Las Vegas witnessed history on a thrilling Saturday night as Terence "Bud" Crawford STOPS Errol Spence Jr. to become the first two division undisputed welterweight champion in the four-belt era. With a spectacular TKO victory over Errol Spence Jr., Crawford added the WBA, WBC, and IBF titles to his WBO crown, solidifying his status as the pound-for-pound king. Entering the T-Mobile Arena for Spence vs Crawford with an undefeated record of 40-0 and 31 knockouts to his name, Crawford faced a formidable opponent in Spence Jr., who held an impressive record of 28-1 with 22 KOs. It was a battle between two of the world's best fighters, with Crawford ranked No. 1 and Spence Jr. holding the No. 4 spot on ESPN's pound-for-pound list. From the opening bell, the Spence vs Crawford fight lived up to its hype. Both fighters showed their skills and determination, engaging in a high-paced exchange of power punches and combinations. In the closing seconds of Round 2, Crawford stunned Spence with a short counter right hand, sending him to the canvas. However, Spence quickly got back on his feet, displaying the heart and resilience that made him a champion. As the Spence vs Crawford progressed, Crawford's prowess became evident. In the fourth round, he delivered a crushing looping left hand that visibly hurt Spence, causing blood to trickle from his nose and swelling around his left eye. Crawford's power shots and well-timed combinations continued to find their mark, putting Spence on the defensive. Round 7 proved pivotal as Crawford showcased his dominance. He scored two knockdowns in the round, first with a powerful right uppercut that cracked Spence's chin and then with a looping right hand. Spence tried to fight back, but Crawford's precision and control were simply too much to handle. Round 9 became the climax of the battle, with Crawford unleashing a relentless assault on a visibly weakened Spence. Backed against the ropes, Spence had no answer to Crawford's heavy shots. The referee wisely intervened to stop the fight, sparing Spence further punishment. Crawford's victory was a testament to his technical brilliance, ring intelligence, and formidable power. His ability to read the fight, adapt, and deliver precise blows from all angles left Spence Jr. struggling to find an answer. The victory not only cemented Crawford's legacy as an undisputed champion, but it also solidified his position as the best pound-for-pound boxer on the planet. His performances inside the squared circle have been nothing short of mesmerizing, earning him respect from fans, critics, and fellow fighters alike. With the welterweight division now under his complete control, the question arises: who can challenge Terence Crawford? The landscape of boxing eagerly awaits new contenders to step up and face the undisputed champion. Whether it's a unification bout or a superfight against another elite fighter, fans can be sure that Crawford will always bring his A-game to the ring. As the world revels in the glory of Crawford's historic achievement, his legacy is etched in the annals of boxing history. He has proven time and again that he is not just a boxer but an artist in the sweet science. Terence "Bud" Crawford is a force to be reckoned with—a symbol of excellence and a true champion. In the aftermath of his sensational triumph, the world eagerly awaits the next chapter in the career of the undisputed welterweight champion. One thing is for sure: whenever Terence Crawford enters the ring, it's guaranteed to be an electrifying spectacle—a display of skill, courage, and sheer determination that only a true champion possesses. In the bright lights of Las Vegas, Terence Crawford has risen to greatness. The undisputed king of the welterweight division now reigns supreme, and his legend will continue to grow with every step he takes in his remarkable boxing journey.
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Jul 29 2023

Rising Above Controversy: Conor Benn's Road to Redemption

Welterweight boxer Conor Benn announced on Friday that he is now free to resume his fighting career. His provisional suspension by UK Anti-Doping (UKAD) has been lifted by a National Anti-Doping Panel. However, UKAD has stated that they might appeal this decision and have a 21-day window to make their determination. The reason for Benn's suspension was due to him testing positive twice for the female fertility drug clomifene in July and September. Benn's legal team does not dispute these test results. The main issue is how the substance entered his system on two separate occasions during different testing procedures. The World Boxing Council (WBC) had previously suggested that overconsumption of eggs could be a possible explanation for the positive tests and restored Benn to its ratings in March. However, they later removed him due to inactivity. Benn has consistently maintained his innocence, asserting that he is a clean athlete. He rejects the theory proposed by the WBC and stands by the Doping Panel's decision to lift his temporary suspension, viewing it as a vindication of any wrongdoing on his part. After one year and three days since his first positive test, 26-year-old boxer Conor Benn expressed relief and commented on the challenging time his fans, sponsors, and coaching team endured. He stated that he has now been vindicated for the second time after a hearing with the National Anti-Doping Panel and UK Anti-Doping (UKAD). Benn has consistently maintained his innocence throughout the process.
“After a hearing with the National Anti-Doping Panel and UKAD, I have now been vindicated for the second time. “Hopefully, the public and various media members can now understand why I have maintained my innocence so strongly all the way through. “The UKAD process has now formally ended. I remain free to fight. Naturally, I am pleased that I can now put this behind me once and for all.”
In response to Benn's statement, UKAD released its own statement, acknowledging that Benn is no longer provisionally suspended under the UK Anti-Doping Rules. However, UKAD has decided to appeal the ruling, as it is allowed to do so within 21 days of receiving the decision.
“In April 2023, UK Anti-Doping (UKAD) took the exceptional step of publicly disclosing details of Mr. Conor Benn’s provisional suspension and charge. This followed reports from the media and comments made by Mr. Benn himself. “UKAD’s statement also confirmed that the case would follow the Results Management process in accordance with the UK Anti-Doping Rules. “UKAD notes that Mr. Benn has made further public comments today regarding proceedings before the independent National Anti-Doping Panel. UKAD can confirm Mr. Benn is no longer provisionally suspended under the UK Anti-Doping Rules. “The UK Anti-Doping Rules detail limited circumstances in which UKAD is able to make public disclosures about ongoing cases. “They also set out a clear process within which cases can be heard, and decisions can be handed down by the independent National Anti-Doping Panel. “Where case decisions are handed down by a panel, the Rules provide all relevant parties with a right of appeal. “Under the Rules, UKAD has 21 days from the date of receipt of a decision to file any appeal. UKAD carefully reviews all decisions in its cases before deciding whether to exercise its right of appeal. “UKAD is not able to make any further public disclosures in accordance with the UK Anti-Doping Rules at this time.”
It remains uncertain whether Benn will attempt to reapply for a British Boxing Board of Control license, given his past comments against the Board. The Board will likely wait until after any appeal to make any decisions related to Benn's licensing. Benn's promoter, Eddie Hearn of Matchroom, plans to stage a comeback event for Benn in September, hoping to feature him against significant opponents. A potential clash with Chris Eubank Jr. didn't materialize, as Eubank is set to face Liam Smith again in Manchester on September 2.
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Jul 29 2023

Caleb Plant Punches Jermall Charlo Backstage During the Spence vs Crawford Weigh-ins

During the weigh-ins for the Spence vs Crawford fight at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, an unexpected altercation occurred backstage involving Caleb Plant and Jermall Charlo. The highly-anticipated welterweight boxing match has drawn considerable attention, attracting celebrities and fellow fighters to the event. After the official weigh-in event, a video went viral on social media showing Caleb Plant punching Jermall Charlo on the face, backstage. Security quickly intervened, escorting Plant away while Charlo tried to remain composed. The reason behind Plant's actions remains unclear. Conor McGregor, known for his active presence on social media, also reacted to the incident in a since-deleted tweet. He encouraged Charlo to confront Plant, expressing his confusion over how the situation was handled.
“Get right back here this second Sir, you’re going nowhere till we settle this dispute here and now. Wtf is going on there? Clean cracked and let’s him walk out? No. Nope. Nah. Not a fuckin’ hope”
Plant's last fight was against David Benavidez in March, which he lost by unanimous decision. On the other hand, Charlo holds an undefeated record (32-0) and won his latest bout against Juan Macias Montiel in June 2021. Despite the attention garnered by Plant and Charlo's altercation, the main event Spence vs Crawford on Saturday remains the focal point in Las Vegas. Errol Spence Jr. reacted to the incident happened backstage during the Spence vs Crawford weigh-in on twitter:
"Caleb & Jermall promoting the #SpenceCrawford fight tomorrow in there own way .."
Terence Crawford and Errol Spence Jr. have the chance to solidify their legacy by becoming the undisputed welterweight boxing champion. Fans eagerly await the outcome of this highly-anticipated matchup between two top fighters.
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Jul 29 2023

'Crawford will box Spence's Ass off' - says Freddie Roach before Spence vs Crawford

Legendary boxing coach Freddie Roach is eagerly anticipating the highly anticipated Spence vs Crawford welterweight world title fight in Las Vegas. Both fighters are undefeated belt holders and considered among the best in the world. When asked if the winner of this Spence vs Crawford bout would become the pound-for-pound number one, Roach didn't believe it would reach the same level as the Sugar Ray Leonard era but acknowledged that both fighters are exceptional in their own right.
“No because it’s not like in the Sugar Ray Leonard era yet, I don’t feel, but they are great fighters.”
Roach then shared his breakdown of the Spence vs Crawford fight, favoring Crawford to come out victorious. He praised Crawford's boxing skills, mentioning how he adapts and switches stances in the early rounds to assess his opponent before employing an effective boxing strategy.
“Errol Spence is probably a little bit of a better puncher, but I like Crawford to win the fight. He’s a very, very good boxer, he knows what to do, and in the first, second and third round he’ll make a couple of switches, you know, southpaw, righty, just to get a feel for his opponent, then he’ll decide what he’s more comfortable with then from that point on he’ll box his a** off. He’s a great boxer.”
Crawford playfully confronted Roach about calling him a "bum" at a recent boxing event, to which Roach jokingly responded that he sometimes forgets his name amidst so many great fighters.
“It’s funny, I sat with him at the Hall of Fame dinner recently and he said to me, why do you call me a bum sometimes? He said, I’m the greatest fighter out there, and I said, ’cause sometimes I forget your name! “It really depends on is it the right time or the wrong time, because he has to make that move when it’s available then he can take advantage of it. If he does that correctly, like he usually does, he will have success. But if he doesn’t Spence will be all over him with big punches. He can knock you out with one punch also. The best thing about this fight is it’s two of the best fighters in the world fighting each other. This is what will keep boxing going”
Regarding Crawford's edge, Roach highlighted his versatility and ability to capitalize on the right opportunities. However, he also warned that Spence's power could be dangerous if not handled correctly. The Spence vs Crawford fight has generated immense excitement due to the matchup of two top-tier fighters, and Roach believes it will be a bout that keeps the sport of boxing alive. With both fighters having strong support, it's evident that the Spence vs Crawford matchup is evenly matched. Even Spence himself believes this fight will be talked about for decades to come.
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Jul 29 2023

Devin Haney Ducks Shakur Stevenson!!

Devin Haney, the 24-year-old boxer, is considering whether to give up his 135lbs undisputed title and move up to a higher weight division. He became a four-belt champion after defeating George Kambosos Jr last year and successfully defended those titles in a rematch. Following another successful defense against Vasily Lomachenko this year, the WBC ordered Haney to choose between facing mandatory challenger Shakur Stevenson or moving up to fight the super-lightweight champion, Regis Prograis. Haney has been in talks with Prograis's team to arrange a fight, but if he moves up in weight, he would typically have to vacate his lightweight belts. However, he has reportedly requested to retain at least the WBC belt. Haney said:
“I’m a free agent, and everything is aligned for me to become a two-division champion against arguably the #1 guy [Regis Prograis] at 140 for me to showcase my skills at a much stronger weight. “Weight won’t be my focus in camp. I’ll be able to be comfortable and go into the fight 100%. God willing, that I’ll be able to hold onto my 135 belts while I’m at 140 and come back and defend my undisputed belts. “I’m just that kind of guy, that kind of fighter. I want to fight the best. I fought a future Hall of Famer [Vasily Lomachenko] in my last fight, and now I’m going up to fight another champion. Champion vs. champion. It’ll be a good fight for boxing, and I’ll showcase my arsenal.”
This decision doesn't sit well with Stevenson, who deserves a title shot regardless of who holds the belt. He expressed his frustration on Twitter, feeling that it wouldn't make sense for Haney to move up and still keep the belts.
“I respect the WBC and Mauricio but come on now y’all can’t allow him not to fight me move up in weight and hold the belts.. That don’t even make sense!”
The WBC has faced criticism for allowing heavyweight champion Tyson Fury to take a break from boxing and face an MMA star, Francis Ngannou, which some fans feel is holding up the division. If Haney is allowed to keep his belt while pursuing titles in a higher weight class, it might face similar criticism. The outcome of Haney's petition to retain the belt is uncertain, as the board of governors will need to vote on it. We'll have to wait and see how the situation unfolds in the coming days.
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Jul 28 2023

'I wanted to leave' - Garcia fires back at Joshua's criticism

Robert Garcia, Anthony Joshua's former coach, has responded to the criticism that he didn't teach the fighter anything during their training camp. Joshua sought Garcia's assistance after his first defeat to Oleksandr Usyk, with hopes of avenging the loss. However, despite an improved performance from Joshua, Usyk again emerged victorious via split decision. Following the rematch, Joshua parted ways with Garcia and joined forces with Derrick James. Joshua has since stated that he didn't feel like he was learning during his time with Garcia. However, Garcia disputes this claim and believes that the positive feedback from boxing experts after the Usyk fight proves otherwise. Many acknowledged that Joshua looked better in the rematch, showing improvements in his aggression and landing effective body shots.
“Every fighter, every person has an opinion. I remember after the fight with Usyk I heard nothing but good things from boxing people. Everyone calling me like ‘you know what, he looked better than the first time, he was a little more aggressive, he landed some good body shots.’ So I know that I did my job. I know that he did look better than the first time.”
Garcia also revealed that there were issues with the training camp's setup from the start, and he nearly left before even starting. Despite these challenges, he decided to stay after discussions with Joshua's team. Garcia expressed that fighters may change their opinions, and if there were indeed communication issues between Joshua and his management team during their time together, it could have affected their collaboration. Garcia also hinted at other people involved in the camp who contributed to the challenges he faced.
“Fighters come from saying one thing to another. If we really had that situation, then the problem is he doesn’t have a communication with his management team, because when I first got to camp, I wasn’t very happy with what I seen going on in his training camp. I told his team ‘fly me home, I don’t want to be part of this’ and they convinced me to stay. So, if that was the case, I think Anthony should have said ‘let him go, cause I don’t wanna work with him.'” “I knew it’s not gonna work out because the way camp was going with other people that were involved, I don’t need to say any names.”
Since parting ways with Garcia, Joshua has had one fight under Derrick James, securing a win. Garcia wishes Joshua the best with his new trainer and looks forward to seeing him in action against Dillian Whyte on August 12.
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Jul 28 2023

'Canelo Got Whooped'- Errol Spence Jr. Reacts to Canelo's Support for Crawford in Spence vs Crawford

Errol Spence Jr is not pleased with Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez's prediction that Terrence Crawford will defeat him in their upcoming Spence vs Crawford fight in Las Vegas . The highly anticipated undisputed title bout between the two undefeated welterweight champions is drawing near, scheduled for July 29 at the T-Mobile Arena. Various opinions and forecasts have been circulating ahead of the fight, and Canelo, a Mexican multi-weight world champion, also gave his prediction. However, Spence was quick to respond, dismissing Canelo's prediction by stating that he is not God and highlighting Canelo's past failed prediction when he backed himself to beat Dmitry Bivol but suffered a loss instead.
“He got it wrong, cause he not God. And he backed himself to beat [Dmitry] Bivol and he got his ass whooped.”
For Spence, this fight represents the biggest challenge of his career. While he has faced tough opponents like Kell Brook and Shawn Porter in his division, taking on Crawford will be a significant test. Both fighters have had periods of inactivity recently. Spence's last fight was in April 2022 against Yordenis Ugas, and before that, he had an 18-month hiatus following his win over Danny Garcia in December 2020, during which he was recovering from a severe car accident that jeopardized his fighting future. Crawford's last fight was in December of the previous year, a sixth-round knockout of David Avanesyan, which followed his knockout victory over Shawn Porter in November 2021. As the Spence vs Crawford fight night approaches, fans and experts await eagerly to see whose predictions will be proven right or wrong. The Spence vs Crawford  fight will be broadcasted on TNT Sports in the UK, with undercard action expected to start around 1 AM and the main event ring walks around 4 AM. In the US, the fight will be a Showtime PPV event.
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Jul 28 2023

Is Eminem walking Crawford to the ring for Spence vs Crawford?

Terence Crawford is making preparations for the highly anticipated Spence vs Crawford bout, and there's a possibility that he might have a special guest accompanying him during his ring walk. Crawford and fellow boxing world champion Shakur Stevenson were seen discussing which artist could perform for Crawford's ring walk in a video posted on Instagram. During the conversation, Crawford mentioned that it would be incredible to have Eminem walk him out to the ring for Spence vs Crawford, as the renowned rapper has never done it for any boxer before. Stevenson agreed, expressing his admiration for Eminem's talent. Surprisingly, Eminem himself responded to the video, expressing excitement about the idea and stating that Crawford is one of his favorite boxers. This interaction has sparked excitement among fans, as the possibility of Eminem walking Crawford to the ring adds another level of spectacle to an already highly anticipated Spence vs Crawford event. Fans will have to wait and see if this dream collaboration becomes a reality during the fight on Saturday night.
Stevenson asked Crawford: “Who’ve you got walking you out though?” Crawford replied: “S***, I don’t know man. “You know what I was thinking would be crazy s***? I think it would be dope to have Eminem walk me out or something like that. “He’s never walked nobody out, huh?” Stevenson said: “I ain’t gonna lie, Eminem’s a GOAT. I ain’t never seen him walking nobody out in a boxing ring.” Crawford admitted: “Yeah, I ain’t neither, that’d be dope.” “Stevenson added: “That’d be fire, that’d be different levels, next level. Two GOATs.” Remarkably, the pipe dream has taken a step closer to reality. On Thursday night, Eminem left a comment on the video which said: “This is too crazy!!! You are one of my favourite boxers right now!” Crawford replied: “Pull up Em! Lets do some legendary s***.”
Fans will have to tune in on Saturday night to find out if it comes to fruition.
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Jul 28 2023

'He’s Never Fought Anyone At My Level'- says Errol Spence Jr. at the Final Press Conference of Spence vs Crawford Showdown

At the Final Press conference of Spence vs Crawford, Errol Spence Jr made it clear that he considers Terence Crawford's past opponents to be below his level of competition. He believes that Crawford's lack of experience against top-tier fighters will cause problems for him in the upcoming Spence vs Crawford fight. Spence aims to test Crawford by applying relentless pressure from the start, forcing him to react and adapt quickly. In previous fights, Crawford had the luxury of taking his time to figure out weaker opponents and rally back for victories. However, Spence doubts that this approach will work against him. He plans to keep up a high punch output and pressure throughout the entire fight, leaving Crawford no room to take it easy early on. Spence said:
“He’s never fought anyone at my level. It’s definitely getting to him. He’s ready to jump on the fans and fight.”
The face-off between the two fighters showed a focused and mentally prepared Crawford, but Spence still believes he can unsettle him during the bout. He expects a tactical match in the early rounds, but his relentless approach may force Crawford to fight more aggressively than he is used to. Spence points out that Crawford's recent opponents has been relatively weak compared to the level of competition he will face in the Spence vs Crawford fight. He also mentions Crawford's age and physical changes as potential factors that might affect his performance. Shawn Porter, who has fought both Spence and Crawford, shares his own insights into Crawford's strategic brilliance in the ring. Porter admits that he couldn't decipher Crawford's tactics during their fight, and his retirement indicates that facing rising stars like Jaron 'Boots' Ennis would have been a challenging prospect for him. Porter said:
“I saw him today on the podium when they did their face-off, and when he turned to look at the crowd, he was swaying back & forth. He’s mentally checked in for the fight. “His energy is at fight level already. Both of them mean hurt, but Terence shows how much he means. Errol is very poised in the ring and has that poker face. He’ll show small signs of frustration, but they’ll come & go by the snap of a finger. “I do think we’re going to get a very strategic fight up to four or five rounds. That’s if somebody doesn’t land something clean that upsets the other. Both guys will still remain poised. “If anybody is going to get upset & heated, I think it’s going to be Terence. He’s going to be the one that is going to try and push those buttons. But for five or six rounds, this could be that chess match.”
However, Spence remains confident that Crawford will struggle to handle the pressure and high-level competition in the upcoming Spence vs Crawford showdown. He sees the fight as a significant test for Crawford, who will need to showcase his best skills and adapt quickly to Spence's aggressive approach. Porter's perspective further emphasizes the challenges posed by Crawford in the ring and highlights his strategic brilliance as a fighter.
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Jul 27 2023

Dmitry Bivol predicts Spence vs Crawford - 'Crawford is the favourite'

As the highly anticipated undisputed Spence vs Crawford welterweight clash approaches, experts are making their final predictions for this closely matched bout. Scheduled to take place on July 29 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, the fight aims to settle the debate among many fans regarding the best fighter in the world. Undefeated light-heavyweight champion, Bivol, shared his thoughts on the Spence vs Crawford fight via Twitter and believes that 'Bud' Crawford will emerge victorious. Bivol cites Crawford's speed, movement, and reflexes as key factors that make him the favorite. While Spence is the larger fighter with excellent ring IQ, Bivol considers Crawford to be the most complete fighter at the moment.
“I would say Crawford is the favourite because of his speed, movement, and reflexes. Spence is the bigger guy in the ring and also has great ring IQ but in my opinion Crawford is the most complete fighter of all right now.”
The build-up to the Spence vs Crawford fight has focused on the size difference, as Spence has been a welterweight throughout his career, while Crawford has found success in two lower weight divisions before moving up. Both champions have a preference for knockouts rather than going the distance, boasting a combined total of 52 knockout wins in 67 bouts. Additionally, they have faced common opponents in Kell Brook and Shawn Porter, providing fans with opportunities to draw comparisons. Crawford enters the ring as a slight favorite, but many experts and pundits are backing Spence as well. This bout promises to be one of the most intriguing contests in recent memory. The winner of Spence vs Crawford will be crowned the four-belt champion and recognized as the best welterweight of their generation. Moreover, a two-way rematch clause in the contract hints at the possibility of a rematch in the near future.
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Jul 27 2023

From 90 Days in Jail to Fighting for the Undisputed Titles, Crawford has come a long way - Spence vs Crawford

Born with a natural talent for both boxing and reading his opponents, Crawford's resilience and toughness were shaped by the constant arguments he witnessed between his parents and the abuse he endured from his mother, Debra, who was a heavy drinker.
“I got hit with a belt, a toy, a stick, extension cord, a switch off a tree, whatever,” he once said. “At the same time, my pain tolerance went up. It came to the point where it built toughness. Yeah, it hurt, but I wasn’t scared. I knew what was coming. Wasn’t nothing I wasn’t prepared for. “I always have the ability to believe in myself when nobody else does. [Later, aged 12] I just look at her like, ‘Pshh, that don’t hurt’. I grabbed the belt, tell her, ‘You ain’t hitting me no more’.”
Crawford developed into a knockout machine, becoming one of boxing's top fighters. He was drawn to boxing from a young age and endured a tough upbringing, which contributed to his high pain tolerance and unwavering self-belief. Growing up in Omaha, he found solace at the CW gym, where he trained alongside members of various gangs. His trainer, Brian McIntyre, a former member of the Insane Vice Lords, played a crucial role in shaping his boxing career. The tough environment at home was matched by the presence of strong women, including his mother, sisters, grandmother, and aunt, who faced their own challenges. Despite facing difficulties in his personal life, Crawford's talent as a fighter caught the attention of Timothy Bradley, who recognized his potential and trained with him. In 2014, Crawford got his chance to become a world champion, defeating Ricky Burns with ease. Throughout his career, he faced numerous dangerous situations, including being shot at, but emerged unscathed. Crawford's path to greatness continued as he moved up to welterweight and became the WBO champion by defeating Jeff Horn. His ultimate goal was to become the undisputed welterweight champion, setting up a highly anticipated clash with Errol Spence Jr. On the upcoming Saturday night, Crawford and Spence will finally face each other for the undisputed welterweight world titles at Spence vs Crawford bout, making it one of the most significant fights in boxing history.      
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Jul 27 2023

Judges Questioned by Fans before Spence vs Crawford

The three judges for the highly anticipated Spence vs Crawford bout have been officially confirmed ahead of Saturday night's clash in Las Vegas. The matchup aims to unify all four welterweight world championship belts, determining the undisputed king of the 147lbs division. Given the anticipation of a closely contested fight, many believe that the judges' decision could be crucial. However, not all fans are pleased with the selection of judges. The Nevada commission has approved Tim Cheatham, David Sutherland, and Steve Weisfeld as judges for the Spence vs Crawford fight. This decision has sparked mixed reactions among boxing enthusiasts.
“Sutherland scored George Kambosos Jr vs Maxi Hughes a draw (114-114). Sutherland had Devin Haney winning 115-113 over Vasyl Lomachenko.”
Keith Idec, a reporter from BoxingScene, revealed that Sutherland previously scored the George Kambosos Jr vs. Maxi Hughes bout a draw (114-114) and had Devin Haney winning 115-113 over Vasyl Lomachenko. Both of these fights had controversial outcomes and have involved Sutherland on the judging panels. Although some fans defend the fairness of his past scorecards, others express concern about his appointment for the Spence vs Crawford bout. One fan criticized the decision, calling it a "bad choice" to have Sutherland as a judge. Another suggested that judges who were part of the disputed decisions in recent bouts should be removed from their roles. Some even expressed skepticism, suggesting that the judges might already have their scorecards filled out. On the other hand, some fans supported the selected judges and stated their trust in them. They argue that Sutherland's past scorecards were fair and reasonable.
One wrote: “Bad choice to assign Sutherland as one of the judges.” And a second put: “All judges who worked on the Maxi heist should be sacked immediately.” A third said: “Bulls*** decision on deck with those three scoring. Probably already got their cards filled out.” While a fourth added: “So two judges with recent wrong scorecards, this should end well.” In contrast though, one fan said: “Great judges! I trust them.” And another replied about Sutherland’s past disputed scores: “[They] were completely fair scorecards.” A third fan wrote: “115-113 Haney was far from unreasonable.”
The stage is set for an exciting and highly anticipated Spence vs Crawford fight on Saturday night, where the three judges will play a significant role in determining the winner in case the bout goes the distance.
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Jul 27 2023

Jermell Charlo Picks Errol Spence Jr. to knock Crawford within the first six rounds in Spence vs Crawford bout

Jermell Charlo, who trains alongside Errol Spence Jr in Dallas, believes that Spence will knock out Terence Crawford within the first six rounds during the upcoming Spence vs Crawford fight at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Even though Crawford is considered the favorite to win by oddsmakers, Charlo thinks Spence's skills are underestimated. Spence plans to apply a lot of pressure on Crawford, pushing him to engage in a close-quarters brawl. If Crawford's mobility fails him, it's uncertain if he can handle that kind of fight for long. Charlo has praised Spence, calling him an overachiever and the best in the 147-pound division. Spence himself hopes to inspire future generations of fighters to want to engage in legendary battles like Spence vs Crawford. Charlo said:
“He trains too hard to lose. He’s an overachiever. He’s the best in the game right now at 147.”
Spence is open to scoring a first-round knockout in Spence vs Crawford, though he acknowledges that keeping the audience interested in the Showtime pay-per-view may require a knockout in the second, third, or fourth rounds instead. He wants to create Spence vs Crawford a legacy-defining fight similar to those of the boxing greats he watched in his younger days, such as Sugar Ray Leonard, Tommy Hearn, and Evander Holyfield.
“I want a kid that is watching me fight on Youtube in 15 to 30 years from now saying, ‘I want to have a fight like Errol Spence & Terence Crawford. I want to be in one of those fights,' “I’m definitely okay with a first round knockout because as they say, ‘You don’t get paid for overtime,’ and you’re losing brain cells as the rounds go. “If it can go in the first, second, or third rounds, I wouldn’t mind it. But not in the first round because we got to keep them buying the Showtime pay-per-view. So in the second, third, or fourth round, it can definitely happen. “That’s the same thing with me when I was 14 or 15 years old and I was watching Ray Leonard and Tommy Hearn, watching all these old school fights. I remember watching Evander Holyfield’s fights, thinking, ‘I want to have a fight like that in a legacy-defining fight.’ “How the press conference was and just the stuff before the actual fight. It was great, and to have a kid 20 or 30 years from now,” said Spence.
Shawn Porter believes that the Spence vs Crawford fight could play out in two ways: either both fighters will silently agree to go all-out, or one of them will challenge the other, leading to an intense showdown.
“One of two things are going to happen. It’s going to be a silent agreement of, ‘Here we are, let’s go,’ or one of them is going to say, ‘Meet me right here,’ and the other one ain’t going to back down,” said Shawn Porter to Premier Boxing Champions on how the Spence vs. Crawford fight will play out.
 
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Jul 27 2023

Fury vs Ngannou rematch clause - A hope for Deontay Wilder to regain WBC Heavyweight Championship

Boxing enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating Deontay Wilder's potential reclaim of the WBC heavyweight championship, amid the unfolding Fury vs Ngannou saga. The rematch clause in the Fury vs Ngannou contract has stirred considerable controversy, prompting calls for the World Boxing Council to intervene and add clarity to this somewhat muddled situation. The fate of Tyson Fury’s heavyweight belt seems uncertain, should he unexpectedly lose the Fury vs Ngannou bout. The prospect of "The Gypsy King" surrendering his championship to Ngannou is causing a frenzy in the boxing community, sparking widespread debate. The first Fury vs Ngannou showdown in October divided fans' opinions. As the current WBC titleholder, Fury's obligation to defend his championship is viewed as a privileged responsibility. Many argue that his apparent failure to offer a top fifteen contender a well-deserved shot is unjust, especially if he proceeds with the Fury vs Ngannou rematch. Fury's legendary stature, reach, and technical prowess have, ironically, placed him under scrutiny. His victories over former long-term champion Deontay Wilder projected him to be among the greatest WBC heavyweight champions. However, many critics have questioned the quality of his adversaries before and after Wilder. In the Fury vs Ngannou context, Ngannou, the ex-UFC heavyweight champion, seems like an underdog despite his explosive punching power. His odds in the Fury vs Ngannou match remain dubious against the technically superior Fury. The build-up to the Fury vs Ngannou match is promising high octane action. The stark contrast in styles and unpredictability of the fight's outcome have boxing and MMA fans split. Should Ngannou land a powerful punch and Fury hits the canvas, the WBC will find itself in an interesting predicament. Meanwhile, the Wilder-Ruiz Jr. WBC eliminator becomes all the more significant due to the Fury-Ngannou situation. The winner is likely to become the full champion if Fury decides to proceed with a second bout against Ngannou in 2024. If negotiations fall through, Wilder could potentially reclaim the WBC title by default. Wilder's determination to reclaim the title remains undeterred, regardless of the outcome of the Fury vs Ngannou saga.
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Jul 24 2023

Maxi Hughes Will Appeal Against Judges Decision in Kambosos vs Hughes Bout

Hughes suffered a setback as he lost his IBO World lightweight title in a controversial majority decision in Kambosos vs Hughes bout. Despite outboxing his opponent, Kambosos, a former holder of three world titles, two judges favored the Australian fighter, leading to Hughes' defeat. Hughes, on the other hand, is upbeat and prepared to fight against the decision alongside his team. Even if the outcome is unknown, he feels it is the proper thing to do. The British fighter had a tremendous performance, skillfully countering Kambosos throughout the 12-round bout. Hughes said:
"The result is what it is but my team will be appealing that. I don’t know if anything will come of it, but it feels like the right thing to do.”
While the judges' decision was controversial, Hughes admits that he demonstrated his abilities and shown that he belonged at the world-class level. Despite the setback, he is optimistic about the future and ready to recover.
“I have shown I’m at that level, I’m a world-class fighter. Everybody saw that.
"We should have had our hand raised, but we will be back. I’m looking forward to what’s coming next.”
Kambosos, on the other hand, will now challenge for the IBF world championship following his victory. He hasn't ruled out a rematch with Hughes, but he'll focus on being a two-time world champion first. Just after the Kambosos vs Hughes ended, Hughes said in the interview:
“It was a bit of a kick in the b*llocks if I'm honest, Hughes said of the decision, which brought to an end his seven-fight winning streak. Now I feel a bit stupid stood here in a cowbow hat. I'm absolutely devastated. “I should have had my hand raised. I don't want to take George's moment. I'm gutted. We won the fight by many rounds, but that's no discredit to Maxi. He had a couple of good rounds, but a couple of good rounds doesn't win you a fight. "The majority of the rounds I won. He done his movement and he wasn't too much engaging [sic], but that's the way he fights. He's going to bounce back, he's a tough challenger. If the opportunity is there, we will give him another rematch. "Everybody here now knows who Maxi Hughes is. I want to earn the dollars to provide for my family, show everyone who Maxi Hughes is and how good I can be. We'll see what's next."  
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Jul 24 2023

Michael Hunter calls Fury a 'Clown' ahead of Fury vs Ngannou

There's been a mix of opinions about the upcoming Fury vs Ngannou bout between WBC heavyweight champion Tyson Fury and former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou. Heavyweight contender Michael Hunter recently expressed his thoughts, calling Fury a "Clown." In an interview with Seconds Out, Hunter mentioned that many heavyweights these days seem more interested in fame and making excuses rather than actually stepping into the ring. He praised Ngannou and his team for taking on the challenge and criticized the current state of boxing with Fury holding the WBC & Ring Magazine belts.
“They want the fame. They want excuses and most of them make them, know what I’m saying. It’s a bad thing for boxing as a whole. I take my hat off to Francis Ngannou, to him and his team, for making that fight happen. There was an opening and an opportunity cause we basically got a clown holding the belts and it’s a bad situation.”
Hunter also showed respect for unified heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk, who he believes is willing to fight anyone and strives to be the best in multiple weight classes.
“He’s done it all. He wants to be cruiserweight champ, heavyweight champ, he went into the Olympics, and he wants all the belts, and that’s how it should be. I feel he would fight an even faster place if it was allowed.”
Going on a passionate rant, Hunter labeled some of the top heavyweights as "soft" and too emotional, with their egos getting in the way. He believes Fury avoided a tough fight with Usyk and sees it as a selfish move on Fury's part to go for the Fury vs Ngannou bout.
“Their hearts get broken, they’re emotional, their egos are too involved. They can’t stick with reality, they get the big head and they really think they can do something. I feel like Tyson Fury, he dodged a bullet on Usyk, he’s a real hard competitor, he would give Tyson Fury a problem, that’s not a secret, there’s no way he should not be fighting. It’s not good for the whole situation. I feel like it’s a selfish move on Fury’s behalf.”
Despite differing opinions from other heavyweights, the Fury vs Ngannou fight is set to take place in Riyadh on October 6. Ngannou has stated that he won't solely rely on his power but is prepared to face Fury's famous skills and footwork.
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Jul 24 2023

Tony Bellew Predicts Whyte's Downfall Before the Joshua vs Whyte 2

In an anticipated Joshua vs Whyte rematch, both fighters with three losses on their records, are set to meet in a pivotal fight for their careers. The heavyweight division's landscape is being influenced by substantial financial backing from Saudi Arabia, making this match even more crucial. The outcome of this Joshua vs Whyte fight extends beyond just the British title; it's a chance for the winner to reclaim their position at the top of the division. Their past encounters and shared history add to the intrigue, leaving fans wondering if their previous animosity will resurface or if experience will lead to a more cautious approach. Tony Bellew, a former cruiserweight world champion, expressed uncertainty about the loser's future after Joshua vs Whyte match, emphasizing the high stakes involved. Both fighters know exactly what's on the line, ensuring we'll witness their best efforts on fight night.
“August 12 could be the last part of this heavyweight story because I’ve got absolutely no idea where the loser goes.” “The fact these two go back years inside the ring means that we’ll get the best possible versions on the night, and both will know exactly what’s at stake. Some questions were asked of both men after their respective battles with Franklin, but everything will be answered here because this is two fighters who won’t give an inch on the night because of their long history and because of what lies in front of them.”
Bellew gives Joshua the edge, citing Whyte's aggressive style as a potential weakness. Joshua previously stopped Whyte in their professional bout, and Bellew believes Joshua is better when opponents come to him. He anticipates that Whyte's approach could play into Joshua's strengths and lead to his downfall.
“As it stands, Joshua must start the favourite. He holds a stoppage win over Whyte in the professional game and he knows he can hurt him when the time comes. The Whyte we didn’t see against Fury is what I expect to see next month but does that version play into Joshua’s hands? I’ve always said that Joshua is better when opponents come to him. That’s how I see Whyte approaching the fight and I believe it could be his downfall.”
The fight is scheduled for August 12 in London, and fans eagerly await the outcome to see which fighter will rise to the top once again.
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Jul 24 2023

Amir Khan's Return to Boxing Ring: Teased Super Fight Against a Boxing Legend

Amir Khan, who retired from professional boxing in May last year after a bout with his domestic rival Kell Brook, has announced his return to the ring. Despite his retirement, Khan has not ruled out exhibition matches. Recently, it was revealed that he failed a post-fight doping test after the fight with Brook, resulting in a two-year ban from all sports, which will end on April 5, 2024. Khan has maintained his innocence, and an independent panel accepted his argument that he did not intentionally take the banned substance. At a Disrupt Promotions show in Dubai, Khan made a surprising announcement about his comeback, teasing that he will be facing one of boxing's biggest names in a super fight. The details of the fight are still being kept under wraps, but Khan mentioned that agreements have been signed by both parties, and the opponent, who could be a champion, will be flying into Dubai for a conference to announce the fight soon.
“I think there’s gonna be a massive announcement in the next week or so. I might be coming back in the ring again. I might be fighting again. It’s not gonna be a small fight, it’ll be like a super fight as well. The deal was that big I couldn’t turn it down. So that’s why I’ll get myself back in the gym again, train again. It’ll be a massive fight. We’ve kept it very quiet at the moment. I can’t announce anything just yet, but it’s one of the biggest names in boxing who I’ll be in the ring with. This fight was talked about so many times before. Dubai, in my opinion, they’ve made it happen. We are 99% there. Agreements have been signed from both parties, and I think this week hopefully, the opponent – I don’t know if I should call him opponent or should I call him champion as well – they will be flying into Dubai and hopefully we’ll be doing a conference to announce it.”
While Floyd Mayweather Jr. is currently one of the main figures in the exhibition circuit, Khan and Mayweather never fought during their careers despite coming close to it. They share a notable opponent in Saul 'Canelo' Álvarez. Other boxing stars like Manny Pacquiao have also participated in entertainment contests, engaging in one with Thai boxer Buakaw Banchamek in early 2024. As Khan's plans progress, more information will likely be revealed in the upcoming weeks. Fans are eager to see who the big-name opponent will be for his much-anticipated return to the ring.
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