Crawford Vs. Madrimov: ‘Strong, In His Prime, Great Pedigree’ – Risk for Bud?
Terence Crawford has announced that he will face WBA Junior Middleweight Champion Israil Madrimov on August 3.
The fight takes place from the BMO Stadium in Los Angeles, California, as Bud begins his quest to become a three-weight undisputed champion. The 36-year-old will have been out of the ring for one year come fight night, having not fought since beating Errol Spence Jr. last July.
That was the biggest win of Bud’s career, making him the first Undisputed Welterweight Champion of the four-belt era. Crawford also solidified his position as an all-time great by becoming undisputed in a second weight class.
The Spence rematch never happened after Crawford became frustrated at the excuses coming from team Spence. The Truth blamed his vision problems for being hit so many times as he underwent cataract surgery on his right eye.
A fight with Canelo Alvarez failed to materialize as the Mexican chose to box Jaime Munguia on May 4. The Mexican felt he would get no credit for beating a welterweight. As Crawford turned his attention to 154 pounds, the WBO made him mandatory for Sebastian Fundora.
After defeating Tim Tszyu, Fundora became the WBO and WBC champion at junior middleweight. However, Fundora broke his nose, leaving him out until November at the least. Madrimov remains undefeated. His record stands at 10-0-1. He is coming off a fifth-round TKO victory over Magomed Kurbanov. A win for either fighter puts them in a position to chase a unification.
Face Off
Battles
Crawford is a southpaw known for his excellent footwork, hand speed, and counterpunching. He can switch to orthodox, meaning that Madrimov will face many looks. However, Bud is fighting at junior middleweight for the first time.
This will be key since Madrimov is a front-foot fighter with a solid jab. The Uzbek will attempt to cut off the ring and put Crawford on the back foot, much like Bud did to Spence. Madrimov does have an excellent amateur record, which stands at 350-20. That means the champion will have seen many different styles. However, when it comes to the professional ranks, Crawford has dealt with bigger pressure.
There is also a question of inactivity. Crawford is 36 years old, meaning it is vital he stays active. Will the year out of the ring hamper him come fight night? Madrimov fought last month, making him a much fresher fighter. But he is facing someone who is known for taking away his opponent’s biggest weapons.
Full Card
Terence Crawford vs. Israil Madrimov
Vergil Ortiz vs. Tim Tszyu
Andy Ruiz vs. Jarrell Miller
Isaac Cruz vs. Jose Valenzuela
David Morrell vs. Radivoje Kalajdzic
Andy Cruz vs. Antonio Moran
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