Overview

• Canelo and Crawford exchanged a push at their latest press event, intensifying a promotional standoff ahead of the September 13 title unification match in Las Vegas.
• In a Ring Magazine ranking exercise, Canelo’s silence on legends signaled his regard for Crawford as one of his toughest opponents, while Crawford placed only Mayweather Jr., Bivol and De La Hoya above the Mexican.
• Veteran promoter Bob Arum renewed criticism of Canelo’s opponent selection, accusing him of risk-aversion and predicting he will avoid contenders like David Benavidez and Christian Mbilli after the Crawford fight.
• Amir Khan publicly backed Crawford to dethrone the Mexican champion, praising his boxing IQ, power and adaptability based on his experience facing both fighters.
• Former champions Dmitry Bivol, Kelly Pavlik and Shakur Stevenson offered strategic counsel to Crawford, advising him to adapt to 168-pound power, press Canelo early to sap his endurance and exploit his vulnerabilities against southpaws.