Crawford dominates Spence as the true P4P#1

Boxing’s greatest showcase, a super-fight between pound-for-pound top fighters, is a sight to behold. Yet these meetings, which are the pinnacle of the sport, rarely come to pass. Frequent issues of boxing politics, weight classes, and timing have historically meant we only witness these bouts a few times per decade. And for the fighters in question to also be undefeated, at the height of their abilities, and closely matched by odd makers? Practically a dream.

What a dream it was for fans this last Saturday, when Terrence “Bud Crawford” and Errol “The Truth” Spence faced each other for the Lineal, Undisputed Welterweight World Championship. For about 6 years both men had been touted as top 10 Pound for Pound talents, both mostly campaigning at 147lbs throughout – and Terrence Crawford (40 – 0) emerged the resounding victor, snatching the #1 Pound for Pound crown and now entering a new argument as an All Time Great.

Photo: Al Bello//Associated Press

The Meeting of Titans

On their way to the top, Spence and Crawford defeated several notable fighters and former champions at welterweight. These collectively included Shawn Porter, Kell Brook, Lamont Peterson, Danny Garcia, Mikey Garcia, and Yordenis Ugas – an impressive lineup who were all soundly beaten.

The fight between Bud and The Truth would have been excellent even years ago, but fans lost hope after promotional barriers and challenging schedules continued barring the way. There was likely more than one viewer pinching their cheeks when the two champions finally entered the same ring.

Part of the fight’s appeal was in how difficult it was to call – neither boxer had ever come close to losing. Spence (28 – 1) had won his fights through relentless pressure and a high-volume style, setting up shots through a sharp lead jab and hammering opponents around their guards and to the body. He broke fighters down, and despite lowering his guard amidst his offense he had never been knocked down or very hurt. There were concerns about his career after his DWI in 2019 took him out of the ring, but he seemed to come back strong. He proved this most recently against Yordenis Ugas, who had just retired the legendary Manny Pacquiao. 

While Spence was a career Welter, Crawford came into the fight after previously dominating the Lightweight and Junior Welterweight divisions. The Nebraskan then won all of his fights at 147lbs by stoppage. He was however criticized for only fighting opponents who were short of elite or well past their best, with many thinking his skills may have been dulling. While he won convincingly in each outing using his enigmatic switch-hitting style and sharp counter-punching, this was not enough to make him the favorite against Spence. Crawford for years maintained that the boxing world was looking down on him, and he finally had a chance to prove it.

Photo: John Locher//Associated Press

The Emergence of a Master

Crawford had his supporters, but none could have predicted the masterclass he put on this weekend. Spence approached his opponent like always, lunging forward with his jab and chasing with powerful southpaw straight lefts. Crawford also fought in southpaw stance (his typically favored style) which led to a unique situation for both men, who had rarely fought southpaws as pros. Crawford used his high guard while stepping back to stop Spence’s punches from breaking through. Spence was used to such a defense, and perhaps planned to try breaking it down over time.

The general expectation was for Crawford, considered a slow starter, to give away opening rounds to the more active Spence on his way to adjusting and bringing a different tone to the fight. Instead, he shocked the world as he dropped Spence in closing frames of the 2nd round with a punishing right-hand jab. Spence overextended his cross and gave a small, narrow opening which Crawford thunderously exploited.

Spence got off the canvas easily enough, but the mental damage of the first down in his career had begun to set in; the night only became more disastrous. Whether moving in cautiously with one punch at a time, swinging wildly, or attempting to bully his opponent in the clinch, Spence could not land a single shot of consequence. His infamous bodywork was blocked and avoided. His deadly jab was countered at every turn, leaving his face red and swollen by the 4th round. And his left hand, the key weapon in most of his 22 knockout wins, was ducked and dodged completely.

Bud gradually beat the younger Spence more and more with unbelievable timing and force. Spence hit the canvas twice more in round 7 yet staggered on, showing heart wrenching determination. By the time of the stoppage in Round 9, Spence was shaking where he stood and only weakly able to swing at air. He protested the stoppage at first, but there was no question left. Crawford had his hand raised and made history as the first man to hold all 4 welterweight titles.

Photo: Ryan Hafey//PBC

Unexpected yet Undeniable

Crawford was emotional in his post-fight interview, speaking out against all those who doubted his ability to win at this level. Spence represented Crawford’s first bout against another pound for pound fighter, and was rated far above anyone Crawford had faced in years. This along with Crawford now being 35 years of age made it truly sensational – who could have guessed Spence would be made to look like an amateur? The result helps us realize who Crawford is; a fighter who can exploit weaknesses others did not know existed, and can adapt to any situation. It’s almost as if his opponents, whether top 2 or top 15 in the world, might equally struggle – perhaps that’s how far ahead Terrence Crawford is.

This is not to discredit the valiant effort Spence showed, and the class he presented himself with =in giving all credit to Crawford’s abilities. While Spence requested an immediate rematch in his interview, his handlers may not be so keen - this is the kind of defeat that can stay with a fighter throughout his career. It would be best to recuperate and spend time away from the ring before his return. It may seem crazy to have another go at Crawford now, but Spence alone (with his rematch clause) will decide.

The real attention will be on the champion, who will become one of the most demanded fighters in the world to watch. Perhaps he will be tempted to chase belts at 154lbs, starting with Spence’s stablemate (and fellow undisputed champion) Jermell Charlo. Becoming undisputed at a third weight class would be an accomplishment beyond reason – but who else could do it? Or, Crawford may even take a break and close out the year with an easier bout for his fans in Omaha. Crawford did what was demanded of him – now, he makes the rules.

Photo: John Locher//Associated Press