Terence Crawford Stuns Canelo Álvarez to Become Undisputed Super Middleweight Champion
In a stunning display of skill and strategy on September 14, 2025, Terence Crawford defeated Canelo Álvarez via unanimous decision to claim the undisputed super middleweight championship title, cementing his status as one of boxing’s all-time greats.
The fight, held at the Allegiant Stadium, was highly anticipated as a legacy-defining showdown between two of boxing’s biggest stars. Crawford, who moved up two weight divisions for this bout, delivered an exceptional all-around performance, outworking Álvarez across the 12 rounds. The judges scored the fight 116-112, 115-113, and 115-113 in favor of Crawford.
From early on, Álvarez targeted body shots and powerful counterpunches, trying to leverage his strength and experience. However, Crawford’s tactical approach centered around slick boxing, precise combinations, and superior footwork. He consistently kept Álvarez on the defensive by applying pressure and landing clean, telling punches to the head, which gradually took their toll.
As the match progressed, Crawford’s control of distance and pace frustrated Álvarez, who struggled to trap his opponent or mount sustained offense. Despite some good shots from Álvarez in the mid-rounds, Crawford’s speed and accuracy dominated the exchanges. Notably, Crawford’s ability to slide around the perimeter and pick his moments to strike effectively blunted Álvarez’s power advantage.
The victory earns Crawford the rare distinction of being the first male boxer in the four-belt era to become undisputed champion in three different weight classes: junior welterweight, welterweight, and now super middleweight. This monumental achievement places Crawford alongside boxing legends and sparks debate about his legacy as possibly the greatest fighter of his generation.
At 37 years old, Crawford’s undefeated record of 42 wins with 31 knockouts now includes this signature win over Álvarez, who is widely recognized as the face of boxing worldwide. The win also adds to Crawford’s decorated career, marking him as a five-division world champion with multiple undisputed titles.
Experts compared Crawford’s masterful performance to Floyd Mayweather’s dominating win over a young Álvarez back in 2013, suggesting this could be an even more impressive testament to Crawford’s technique and ring IQ. The fight highlighted Crawford’s combination punching, tactical intelligence, and an exceptionally strong chin that withstood Álvarez’s power shots without faltering.
Following the bout, questions emerged about Crawford’s future in boxing. Many speculate whether he will continue competing or retire at the pinnacle of his career. Regardless, this victory catapults him into elite conversations as one of boxing’s greatest and forever changes the super middleweight landscape.
This historic night will be remembered for Crawford’s stunning rise as an undisputed champion in three weight divisions and proving his place among the sport’s legends with an all-time performance that outclassed one of boxing’s most formidable opponents.