What is the size difference between Canelo and Crawford?

What is the size difference between Canelo and Crawford?

The size disparity between Canelo Álvarez and Terence Crawford is a major talking point in this fight. Here's the breakdown:

Physical Measurements:

• Height and Reach: Surprisingly, Crawford is slightly taller at 5'8" (173 cm) vs Canelo at 5'7" (170 cm). Crawford also has a reach of about 74 inches (188 cm) which is notably long for his size, while Canelo's reach is around 70.5 inches (179 cm).

• Weight and Build: The real difference is in build and natural weight. Canelo, at 168 lbs, will likely enter the ring around 180+ lbs after rehydration (he's been known to rehydrate well into the 170s). Crawford, moving up from 147 lbs, will probably come in around 170-175 lbs on fight night.

• Strength and Power: Canelo's punching power at 168 is proven – he has knocked out true super middleweights and even a light heavyweight (Sergey Kovalev). Crawford has shown power at 147 (TKO'd most opponents) but hasn't fought at this weight before.

• Speed and Athleticism: Generally, the smaller man is faster, and indeed Crawford is expected to have a speed advantage. His footwork and hand speed should eclipse Canelo's, especially if Canelo has slowed down slightly with age.

• Chin and Durability: Canelo has one of the best chins in boxing – he's rarely been visibly hurt despite fighting heavy punchers at higher weights. Crawford's chin hasn't let him down yet, but he also hasn't faced someone with Canelo's power.

Impact on the Fight:

The size difference could manifest in several ways. Canelo's power and strength advantage might allow him to bully Crawford on the inside and wear him down with body shots. However, Crawford's speed and technical skills could help him avoid damage and outbox Canelo from the outside.

Historical Context:

This is one of the largest weight jumps in boxing history for a fight of this magnitude. Crawford is moving up three weight classes (147 to 168) to challenge a naturally bigger fighter. The closest comparison might be Manny Pacquiao moving up to fight Antonio Margarito, though that was a different era and context.

The Verdict:

While Crawford has the height and reach advantage, Canelo's natural weight, power, and experience at 168 lbs give him a significant size advantage. The question is whether Crawford's superior speed and skills can overcome this disadvantage.

(Sources: Official fight statistics; boxing media analysis of size differences; historical comparisons.)