Terence Crawford (40-0, 31 KOs) seeks to further his legacy by becoming a four-division champion when he challenges WBA and WBO interim super welterweight champion Israil Madrimov (10-0-1, 7 KOs) tonight at the BMO Stadium in Los Angeles.
Crawford’s first fight at 154 will be against a dangerous power puncher. Madrimov poses a legitimate threat with dangerous power and a strong amateur pedigree.
Israil Madrimov is a methodical boxer who likes to place calculated pressure.
Crawford will assess him early, measuring his strength and capturing his rhythm. Once he feels comfortable, he’ll be able to mount an offensive attack to disrupt Madrimov’s timing.
Madrimov is physically strong and being able to defend his power punches effectively will be key. Crawford being ambidextrous and having the ability to switch stances will give him an advantage to counterattack. Crawford is one of a few fighters who can legitimately box as both an orthodox or southpaw. Giving Madrimov different looks and using different angles will create openings for Crawford.
Terence Crawford aims to capture a mega fight against Canelo Alvarez, and Turki Alalshikh has expressed his intent to help make the fight happen. Crawford must first defeat Madrimov convincingly, because if he intends to challenge a 168 pounder, he must look great against a 154 pounder.
Crawford’s greatest threat in this match, is Madrimov’s strength, if he can defend the power effectively. He will demonstrate he can compete against a bigger man.
Will Crawford’s power carry into this new division? Crawford has scored 11 consecutive knockouts and physically looks as strong as ever. Madrimov looks physically imposing, and if Crawford can punish him with his power, it will be interesting to see.
Crawford lands 47 percent of his power punches and is able to minimize his opponent’s attack by holding them to a lowly 21 percent of their total punches (Compubox).
Madrimov has never faced an opponent with the caliber or skill level of Crawford. Madrimov possesses strength and power, but in terms of speed and quickness, he will be exposed by Crawford. His rhythmic attack can be timed, and Crawford will do so.
This is Crawford’s opportunity to showcase on the grandest of stages and demonstrate to the world that he is deserving of the pound-for-pound crown. If he defeats Madrimov convincingly, he will earn superstar fame and place himself on the path of facing Canelo Alvarez.
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